New studies reveal dangers of face masks as mask mandates return.

Extended Face Mask Use Linked to Health‍ Issues, Studies Find

Two new studies—one from South Korea via the National Health Institutes (NIH)​ and the other from ⁤Germany—have‌ revealed concerning findings about the prolonged use of ​face masks. ⁤The studies suggest that extended mask use can lead to excessive inhalation of ⁢Toxic Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOCs), resulting in chronic headaches, nausea, organ damage,⁢ and even cancer.

The South⁤ Korean study, titled “Measuring the Quantity of Harmful Volatile⁤ Organic ‍Compounds Inhaled Through ‍Masks”, was conducted by researchers from‌ Jeonbuk National ​University. They focused on ⁤the KN94 masks,‌ which ⁢are equivalent to the U.S. KN95 masks. The study found that the mask sample with the highest amount of TVOCs ⁣had levels more than eight times the recommended limit set ⁢by the Environmental Protection ⁢Agency (EPA).

“According⁤ to the American Lung Association, TVOCs have been shown to irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, cause difficulty breathing and nausea, and damage the central nervous system and organs like the liver. Other types ​of products that​ release TVOCs are paint, caulks, cleaners/disinfectants, pesticides, and‌ even tobacco smoke,” ⁤the LC statement continued.

The German study, conducted in 2022 by independent​ researchers, expressed concerns about the impact of increased exposure to TVOCs ⁤on children, teens, and pregnant women. The study ‍suggested ‌that extended mask use may be related to stillbirths and reduced⁢ cognitive performance in children born during the pandemic.

Both studies recommend further research on the issue and caution ⁣against ⁣prolonged mask use without proper ventilation. The South Korean study suggests opening​ the mask ‌product and not wearing it for at least ‌30 minutes before use to reduce TVOC concentrations to ⁣safe levels.

Opposition to Mask⁣ Mandates

The Liberty Counsel⁤ (LC), a Florida-based non-profit religious liberty public interest law‌ firm, has been actively opposing mask mandates. They have cited⁢ the South Korean study in their opposition, highlighting the potential health⁣ risks associated with extended mask use.

Several​ hospitals have re-issued mask mandates, but the CDC officials have stated that there is no such‍ requirement in ⁢force due to low hospital admissions for COVID-19 cases in most parts of the country. However, the CDC has not clarified⁢ the specific ‌criteria for issuing a new‍ mask mandate.

Opposition to potential new mask mandates is growing among congressional Republicans. Rep. Clay Higgins (R-La.) ‌stated that he ‌will‍ stand against government mandates and urged ⁣citizens to reject new mandates. Texas Republicans, Rep. Randy Weber and Rep.‍ Pete Sessions, have also voiced their⁢ concerns about the negative consequences of extended mask mandates‍ and ⁤called for a reconsideration ​of priorities and public‌ guidance.

As the debate⁣ continues, it⁢ is important to consider ⁢the potential​ health ⁤risks⁣ associated with prolonged mask use and ‍to prioritize further research on the topic.