The  COVID-19 pandemic, started in 2019, has developed into the delta variant, a much more dangerous and contagious mutation of the coronavirus.  Both COVID-19 and its delta variant are most contractible through aerosolized particles, which means you are most likely to get it through inhaling the particles. If you are with someone for fifteen minutes or more with no mask on, and less than 6 feet away from them, you could be in danger of catching the virus.  This is where masks come in.  

              Yes, masks are uncomfortable, and they can stink, but there are solutions for both. And if they keep you safe, I think it’s worthwhile. If your mask smells bad, you can just suck on a mint or something that smells good, and if your mask is uncomfortable, you can just find one that’s more comfortable, or you can wear two masks, a medical mask and something better over it.   While most people wear it only on their nose or mouth, they can still catch the virus by inhaling it through the other uncovered body part. 

                If you care about what happens to you and other people around you, you should wear a mask. Wearing a mask doesn’t just protect yourself, it protects the people around you. 

               “The masks irritate my face. Partially, yes I do think they help stop the spread. Yes, I would still wear a mask if the mask mandate was not ordered. Mostly, yes I mostly think masks keep us safe, because if social distance worked then we wouldn’t have to wear a mask, but if masks worked we wouldn’t have to social distance. I do think they help, but masked people are still getting sick, so they don’t fully prevent you from getting the virus,” Kendall Climo, seventh grader, stated.