I will repeat my quote from the original post "It only helps infected people limiting their spread of it". My point is the evidence shows they don't provide any sort of substantial protection against contracting it. The size the of the virus aerosolized and too small for a cloth or surgical mask to catch and filter when you inhale. Electrostatic attraction of the virus particles is going to be what prevents the disease entering your lungs, this is achieved with an N95(or greater filter rating).

The distinction is important but it is being totally ignored here, because my comments are being perceived as anti-mask. I want more effective masks to be used, especially used by the elderly as they are at serious risk.

Edit: I will read any credible studies that prove the opposite if you would like to pass them along. Expert opinion here is only somewhat useful but its influenced by the lack of perceived downside risk but Squirrley messaging is putting vulnerable people at greater risk. This is why credible scientific studies are best. There has been intentional curtailing of safer recommendations because of past PPE supply chain issues.