If a mask can prevent one person from infecting others, it can prevent 16 people from being infected over the next two weeks, if you assume doubling every 3 days.
Given there is a shortage and we can’t all have masks, who would you prefer have them, people on the front lines who see the infirm and immunocompromised or joe and jill schmoe who’re supposed to be staying home?
I don't think it's that clear cut. The Schmoes are still leaving the house to grocery shop and get exercise. Two masks could make the difference for them and/or everyone near them in the next week. What will two masks do for a hospital full of healthcare workers?
