June 2, 2020

Physical Distancing, Face Masks, and Eye Protection to Prevent Person-to-Person Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Category: Article Summary

Topic: Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions

• A systematic review and meta-analysis of non-pharmacological interventions to prevent transmission of betacoronaviruses such as SARS-CoV-2 reveal that physical distancing by at least 1 meter had lower viral transmission, with protection increasing at longer distances. Face masks also showed a large reduction in infection risk, with stronger associations for N95 or similar respirators as compared to disposable surgical masks or cotton masks. 

Chu et al. (June 1, 2020). Physical Distancing, Face Masks, and Eye Protection to Prevent Person-to-Person Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. The Lancet. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(20)31142-9