The great “mask” debate

[schumigirl]

In case anyone hasn`t seen the latest update on masks, or more for folks who can`t wear them. Universal Orlando has updated their policy from Thursday June 25th.

Taken from the link below. Scroll down to FAQ.



Will I be required to wear a face covering? What if I don’t have one?
Yes. We are following CDC guidelines as well as local health protocols, and face coverings are required to visit Universal Orlando Resort. If you do not have a face covering, we have them available for purchase. Also, children under the age of three are not required to wear face coverings.
If you have a disability that prevents you from wearing a face covering, please contact Guest Services about our alternate accommodation, which is to wear a face shield during your visit. Please note that face shields are not permitted on certain attractions, and guests will have to switch to a face covering for those experiences. Please refer to our Guide for Rider Safety and Accessibility for all ride requirements.



https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/plan-your-visit/safety-faqs

 

[keishashadow]

If you have a disability that prevents you from wearing a face covering, please contact Guest Services about our alternate accommodation, which is to wear a face shield during your visit. Please note that face shields are not permitted on certain attractions, and guests will have to switch to a face covering for those experiences. Please refer to our Guide for Rider Safety and Accessibility for all ride requirements.

Thanks for sharing this, hadn’t seen it. Appreciate that they are extending the accommodation to be inclusive to those with medical needs.

Since it’s been against policy in the parks to present dr notes etc re one’s request for medical needs, people will have to self state = longer lines at GS. Hope U reviews and adjusts staffing accordingly or designates a separate line for that matter.

Surprised though, as most experts have indicated the shield, by its self, is not as effective as a regular mask. Going with they think it’s better than nothing in those cases but a certain element of society will still complain their rights are being violated.

Next up, here’s hoping U will ferret out those who crow how they passed the sniff test with less than standard gear. Read one person passed muster via wearing a paper towel & shoestring in lieu of a mask.

 

[Laz]

In case anyone hasn`t seen the latest update on masks, or more for folks who can`t wear them. Universal Orlando has updated their policy from Thursday June 25th.

Taken from the link below. Scroll down to FAQ.



Will I be required to wear a face covering? What if I don’t have one?
Yes. We are following CDC guidelines as well as local health protocols, and face coverings are required to visit Universal Orlando Resort. If you do not have a face covering, we have them available for purchase. Also, children under the age of three are not required to wear face coverings.
If you have a disability that prevents you from wearing a face covering, please contact Guest Services about our alternate accommodation, which is to wear a face shield during your visit. Please note that face shields are not permitted on certain attractions, and guests will have to switch to a face covering for those experiences. Please refer to our Guide for Rider Safety and Accessibility for all ride requirements.



https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/plan-your-visit/safety-faqs

This does help. My doctor recommends a maximum of 20 minutes in a mask. I can wear a face shield for an extended period of time. So I can switch to a mask just before I get on the ride, but now I have to figure out how to store the shield while riding.

 

[Laz]

Thanks for sharing this, hadn’t seen it. Appreciate that they are extending the accommodation to be inclusive to those with medical needs.

Since it’s been against policy in the parks to present dr notes etc re one’s request for medical needs, people will have to self state = longer lines at GS. Hope U reviews and adjusts staffing accordingly or designates a separate line for that matter.

Surprised though, as most experts have indicated the shield, by its self, is not as effective as a regular mask. Going with they think it’s better than nothing in those cases but a certain element of society will still complain their rights are being violated.

Next up, here’s hoping U will ferret out those who crow how they passed the sniff test with less than standard gear. Read one person passed muster via wearing a paper towel & shoestring in lieu of a mask.

I have found many experts saying just the opposite, that face shields are as effective and less dangerous than masks. Here is one article from AARP:

https://www.aarp.org/health/healthy...cmp=SNO-ICM-FB-COVID-HLTH&socialid=3432276850
Here is an unscientific test concerning the lack of oxygen intake when wearing a mask:

https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=4199997636707319

 

[keishashadow]

Laz - the country is full of people with respiratory issues ranging from mild to severe...i am part of that tribe. We need to decide what our comfort level is while adhering to stated edicts.

if you closely read that article you posted, note it compares home-made masks to the shields and, it’s in the scope of protecting the individual wearing the PPE

Medical people wear a shield & facemask(s)...N95 covered by a cloth mask to extend the life of the other one.

the primary objective of a mask is to protect not the wearer, but those around you. Although current studies show there can be a benefit to the mask wearer as well.

There are videos out there that show just how far droplets go when a person talks, sneezes or coughs. Was rather sobering to view the first time

That said, U has clearly posted their rules. A good thing as it gives people a clear idea of what to expect in that regard & be able to determine if now is the time for them to visit. If the state or federal government ever decides to put official rules in place & enforce them, then that will, trump the parks. No pun intended.

 

[schumigirl]

Thanks for sharing this, hadn’t seen it. Appreciate that they are extending the accommodation to be inclusive to those with medical needs.

Since it’s been against policy in the parks to present dr notes etc re one’s request for medical needs, people will have to self state = longer lines at GS. Hope U reviews and adjusts staffing accordingly or designates a separate line for that matter.

Surprised though, as most experts have indicated the shield, by its self, is not as effective as a regular mask. Going with they think it’s better than nothing in those cases but a certain element of society will still complain their rights are being violated.

Next up, here’s hoping U will ferret out those who crow how they passed the sniff test with less than standard gear. Read one person passed muster via wearing a paper towel & shoestring in lieu of a mask.

Yes, I do hope they have a designated area to deal with folks who will need a face guard.

I think that must be their reasoning, it`s better than nothing. And might stop the folks who would go and "claim" they can`t wear a mask or yes, claim their rights are being violated. I know there are many genuine folks who will struggle, but the ones who will try and fake a claim will now have an answer.

 

[tony67]

I am no fan of masks - but not sure where these people come up with their rights being violated - its a private business and private property. If you dont want to wear a mask don't go.

That being said people can just state that you cant wear a mask for health reason and wear a shield and they pretty much have to accept it - they cannot force you to disclose the condition.

This is a pretty good option IMO:
https://nypost.com/2020/05/15/devo-releases-assemble-yourself-energy-dome-face-shields/

 

[macraven]

Laz

It does not matter what the expert you quoted said...

UO’s park
UO’s rules

If people do not follow what they require, they refuse you admission.

 

[greg9x]

I have found many experts saying just the opposite, that face shields are as effective and less dangerous than masks. Here is one article from AARP:

https://www.aarp.org/health/healthy...cmp=SNO-ICM-FB-COVID-HLTH&socialid=3432276850
Here is an unscientific test concerning the lack of oxygen intake when wearing a mask:

https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=4199997636707319

at that video... seriously people go through so much effort to come up with reasons not to wear a mask. So he initially measures with the sensor out in the open by his mouth which is still picking up the oxygen in the room which is why it's a normal reading...he then puts the sensor behind the mask which blocks a lot of the air from the room and then inhales through his nose and exhales the less oxygenated air out his mouth to the sensor which gives the lessor oxygen reading because the air you expel is less oxygenated... but that in no way means that you are re-inhaling that same low oxygen air in large enough quantity to cause issues. So unless you are using a non-permeable material for your mask which prevents fresh air from being inhaled it's not going to be an issue, other than those who are throwing a tantrum over wearing masks. And why would anyone listen to some random person making videos besides they want 'evidence' to not wear a mask.


And good for Universal putting an alternate requirement in so the 'fakers' still have to wear something and not get to 'pull one over' to get around the rules. People with any kind of actual medical situation should have no issues with it (although still not sure why anyone with that severe of an issue is risking going in the first place).

 

[Laz]

at that video... seriously people go through so much effort to come up with reasons not to wear a mask. So he initially measures with the sensor out in the open by his mouth which is still picking up the oxygen in the room which is why it's a normal reading...he then puts the sensor behind the mask which blocks a lot of the air from the room and then inhales through his nose and exhales the less oxygenated air out his mouth to the sensor which gives the lessor oxygen reading because the air you expel is less oxygenated... but that in no way means that you are re-inhaling that same low oxygen air in large enough quantity to cause issues. So unless you are using a non-permeable material for your mask which prevents fresh air from being inhaled it's not going to be an issue, other than those who are throwing a tantrum over wearing masks. And why would anyone listen to some random person making videos besides they want 'evidence' to not wear a mask.


And good for Universal putting an alternate requirement in so the 'fakers' still have to wear something and not get to 'pull one over' to get around the rules. People with any kind of actual medical situation should have no issues with it (although still not sure whyMy anyone with that severe of an issue is risking going in the first place).

I have a condition called Samter's Triad. Samter's Triad is a condition in which an individual has asthma, sinus inflammation with recurring nasal polyps, and sensitivity to aspirin and some other NSAIDs. When aspirin or a similar drug is taken, people with Samter's Triad have a severe reaction with both upper and lower respiratory symptoms. I have already had a 2 and 1/2 hour surgery to remove polyps. A flare of of asthma and CO2 flares my polyps. My ENT has limited me to 20 minutes in a mask followed by an extended period out of it. I am very thankful for Universal understanding. Not everyone not in a mask is a faker

 

[tony67]

Not everyone not in a mask is a faker

Agree 100% - but there are always those that take advantage that's the problem - not the people who have the actual need.

Lets not forget the folks faking things to get front of the line access at Disney.

 

[yorkieteacher]

FWIW- I have moderate controlled asthma and see a pulmonologist regularly-I had no trouble breathing in a mask in Universal from 8am-6pm. I also felt safer in the parks with everyone in masks than I do in our local supermarket where masks are not required. It's a personal thing, but if I was a TM I would certainly not feel safe with everyone from everywhere(which includes locals) coming into the parks without masks. I would think the true number of people who have a medical reason for not wearing a mask would be small. If people abuse this, it will give the powers that be one more reason to shut something else down ,like the theme parks.

 

[chmurf]

Since it’s been against policy in the parks to present dr notes etc re one’s request for medical needs, people will have to self state = longer lines at GS.

many (= most of) of those who genuinely are "uncomfortable" with masks are people who don't only have this issue. Chances are, those people will also be people who require Assistance Pass, and who would have visited GS anyway

I'm among those people, I can't wear a mask for more than 20 to 30 minutes, at that point I have nausea and I black dots in front of my eyes. Past 1 hour, it would be loss of counsciouness, even in an air conditionned environment, so I can't imagine under 100 degrees heat.


face shields are no more efficient than masks. Not inherently (that's not my point) but because most people can't use them properly. Masks could even help infect someone when they don't use them properly.

But as Macraven put it, UO's parks, UO's rules. That's the only thing that matters

now, on a personal note, as a disabled person, with many different pathologies, I will say something that is not a judgement, but solely my own approach to the problem : As I am "high risk" and already have respiratory issues that prevent me from wearing a mask, I'm very much aware of what would happen (most probably) if I were infected. That would send me for weeks with a tube down my throat, and months to recover probably not to the full of my current state.
bottomline, as someone who can't wear a mask, I'm not going, even if they allow face shields.

for what it's worth, and even though I appreciate they try to accomodate those, like me, who can't wear a mask for an extended period of time, this case is a bit as if you couldn't wear a seatbelt on a ride, and they allowed you to use a hook to attach your pants' belt to the ride vehicle ...

My take here, is that, if one is not "fit" enough to wear a mask (that will include me), maybe one could consider it might not be safe to go ... esp. with the ever growing number of cases in flodira currently.
but, just my opinion which I'm entitled to, and absolutely not a view on any other person's opinion and decision

UO's parks, UO's rules
your life, your decisions.

 

[keishashadow]

My take here, is that, if one is not "fit" enough to wear a mask (that will include me), maybe one could consider it might not be safe to go ... esp. with the ever growing number of cases in flodira currently.
but, just my opinion which I'm entitled to, and absolutely not a view on any other person's opinion and decision

UO's parks, UO's rules
your life, your decisions.

Exactly. My family is within the same parameters you describe. Those with severe enough medical conditiions (wherein wearing a mask affects their ability to breath properly). are typically grounded enough to realize that the parks may not be the healthiest environment for them, especially during a pandemic.

I honestly can’t see anyone’s doctor, upon being asked if it’s ok to venture to a theme park right now (with or without a without a mask) being given a green light...whether they have respiratory or immune issue.

 

[greg9x]

I have a condition called Samter's Triad. Samter's Triad is a condition in which an individual has asthma, sinus inflammation with recurring nasal polyps, and sensitivity to aspirin and some other NSAIDs. When aspirin or a similar drug is taken, people with Samter's Triad have a severe reaction with both upper and lower respiratory symptoms. I have already had a 2 and 1/2 hour surgery to remove polyps. A flare of of asthma and CO2 flares my polyps. My ENT has limited me to 20 minutes in a mask followed by an extended period out of it. I am very thankful for Universal understanding. Not everyone not in a mask is a faker

But you will be able to wear the alternate face shield right ?

As to 'fakers'.... the theme park sites have had a large amount of people who don't want to wear masks and all kinds of 'conditions' they say they will claim to get out of wearing them, or just outright not do it with plans of "I'll just have a drink in my hand the whole time, because I can remove my mask for drinking..." Mask wearing is a public health issue, not just an individual issue, so that's why happy to hear rules and alternate accommodations are being enforced...even though I won't be going due to being in a few higher risk categories myself.

 

[andieb0602]

the theme park sites have had a large amount of people who don't want to wear masks and all kinds of 'conditions' they say they will claim to get out of wearing them, or just outright not do it with plans of "I'll just have a drink in my hand the whole time, because I can remove my mask for drinking..."

FWIW I had read that the TMs are telling guests they can only have the mask off while they are drinking. Between sips, you have to put it back on.

I'm glad they're taking such a strong stance on the masks. We wouldn't be planning a trip if they weren't enforcing it. We have a trip to Discovery Cove planned for September and I'm holding off on buying the tickets because I heard that Sea World did not do well on their opening day (but has since improved). We're low-risk and the only people we've been around are my parents. I know logistically the trip will be very different from one in the past but I, like so many others, feel much safer going to Universal than braving the grocery store.

Ironically enough, back when we booked our July trip during stage 1 lockdown, I mentioned to DH that there were rumors we would have to wear masks in the parks when they reopened. He said he would "never be able to deal with a mask in the summer heat." He is now the one reminding me to grab my mask when we walk the dogs so we can get some mask training in the humidity.

 

[Laz]

But you will be able to wear the alternate face shield right ?

As to 'fakers'.... the theme park sites have had a large amount of people who don't want to wear masks and all kinds of 'conditions' they say they will claim to get out of wearing them, or just outright not do it with plans of "I'll just have a drink in my hand the whole time, because I can remove my mask for drinking..." Mask wearing is a public health issue, not just an individual issue, so that's why happy to hear rules and alternate accommodations are being enforced...even though I won't be going due to being in a few higher risk categories myself.

Yes, I can wear a shield. When I found out I ordered a face shield. A little bulkier to carry around, but that is okay. Most people want to know where I got it. Many local ordinances going in locally. Most either give allowances for medical conditions or use the term "face covering" as opposed to "face mask" Those localities that are too strict I do not shop or eat in. What I have to figure out, is how to store it while on those rides to take if off and replace it with a mask. I don't think any ride lasts as long a 20 minutes. No getting around that. I will be honest, I have great doubts about the whole facial covering. I have put out my articles and videos and realize that won't change some peoples mind. You won't change my mind. I had doubts about seat belts when they first came out. My 96 year old mother-in-Law still fights us to put a belt on. I am sure there are many laws on the books that I like that many do not. Life is like that. Being a Christian, I repeat this Prayer:

God grant me the serenity
To accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
And wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world

As it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
If I surrender to His Will;
So that I may be reasonably happy in this life

And supremely happy with Him
Forever and ever in the next.
Amen.

PS. The good sisters said to Offer it Up!

 

[gotomu212]

Exactly. My family is within the same parameters you describe. Those with severe enough medical conditiions (wherein wearing a mask affects their ability to breath properly). are typically grounded enough to realize that the parks may not be the healthiest environment for them, especially during a pandemic.

I honestly can’t see anyone’s doctor, upon being asked if it’s ok to venture to a theme park right now (with or without a without a mask) being given a green light...whether they have respiratory or immune issue.

Thank you for saying this. I had to take my son to the optometrist last week and they had an absolute no mask, no appointment policy. Out of curiosity since they are a medical office I asked what they would do if someone was unable to wear a mask for medical reasons. She gave me a look and said if someone is too medically frail to wear a mask for our appointment we certainly don‘t want them out in the general public around CoVid. It’s not safe for them or us.

I absolutely believe in equal access, but we are in the middle of a deadly pandemic and it’s hard to grasp why it’s both safe for someone to be out at a park, but not safe for them to wear a mask and protect others.

 

[OrlandoGirl357]

Yes, I can wear a shield. When I found out I ordered a face shield. A little bulkier to carry around, but that is okay. Most people want to know where I got it. Many local ordinances going in locally. Most either give allowances for medical conditions or use the term "face covering" as opposed to "face mask" Those localities that are too strict I do not shop or eat in. What I have to figure out, is how to store it while on those rides to take if off and replace it with a mask. I don't think any ride lasts as long a 20 minutes. No getting around that. I will be honest, I have great doubts about the whole facial covering. I have put out my articles and videos and realize that won't change some peoples mind. You won't change my mind. I had doubts about seat belts when they first came out. My 96 year old mother-in-Law still fights us to put a belt on. I am sure there are many laws on the books that I like that many do not. Life is like that. Being a Christian, I repeat this

I have seen large lockers near the exit at some rides. You may be able to put the face shield there before going on the ride.

 

[gmac1962]

From someone who has worn all kinds of face protection/respirators at work for years (not the medical field) plastic shields are the most uncomfortable to me. It's like taking a plastic bag and putting it over your head, they are hot especially when it's 100 degrees outside. I find gaitors seem to be the most comfortable to me.