Why do people wear surgical masks in Asian countries?
Contrary to popular belief, these masks aren’t worn to protect the wearer – they’re worn to protect others. When used in surgery, they prevent bacteria and viruses from a surgeon’s mouth and nose from entering a patient’s (open or exposed) body.
In many Asian countries, even parts that aren’t heavily populated, it’s common for people to wear the masks if they think they’re getting sick, are sick, or even have a slight cold. They do this as a courtesy to prevent spreading their own infection to others.
