NEW YORK, NY – Dr. Anthony Fauci has shifted his stance on face masks, acknowledging that a recent comprehensive study found them ineffective in controlling the spread of COVID-19.
In an interview with CNN’s Michael Smerconish, Fauci expressed his concern that the public may lose trust in health recommendations. The reversal comes as the U.S. observes a surge in COVID-19 cases.
Since the onset of the pandemic, federal and state agencies have implemented various mask mandates affecting a range of public settings, from airlines to schools. These policies were influenced by Fauci, who serves as the White House’s chief medical adviser.
The new position contradicts Fauci’s previous statements on masks. Initially, he stated that masks were unnecessary for the general public, later advising that “universal wearing of masks is the most practical way to go.”
Fauci believes masking worked, but said there was insufficient data to confirm his belief. He also worried that Americans will be less convincing in future health emergencies.
“When you’re talking about the effect on the epidemic or the pandemic as a whole, the data [on masks] are less strong,” he admitted.