'Who Are Exempted From Wearing Face Masks?': Doctors Answer Nagging Question

Face masks have become mandatory in most parts of the world due to the rapid spread of coronavirus. However, some people do qualify for an exemption on wearing face masks due to medical reasons.

Recently, the internet was awash with talks about face mask exemptions. However, health experts warned only a few people qualified for an exemption and that decision depended on their doctors.

People with chronic lung diseases like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can wear a non-N95 face mask without fear of having their oxygen or carbon dioxide levels affected, Dr. Albert Rizzo, American Lung Association chief medical officer, told ABC News. "Masks have no detrimental effects, even in patients with chronic lung disease."

When asked about people who face breathing difficulties while wearing face masks, Rizzo said they can opt for other facial covers or shields if they cannot tolerate having a conventional covering. The Lung Association chief medical officer explained face mask exemption cases are "few and far between." He added those who are using supplemental oxygen or are in a compromised respiratory status, like experiencing shortness of breathing when walking, might meet the criteria. In such a case, venturing out in public in itself is a health risk to the person.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated in certain situations, wearing face masks could cause distress. This is usually observed in people with mental health conditions, intellectual and developmental disabilities or other sensory sensitivities like autism spectrum disorder. CDC had advised everyone above the age of three to wear masks in public unless they have breathing difficulties or are incapacitated in any manner or cannot remove the mask without assistance.

Dr. Divya Jose, a New York psychiatrist, said people who have post-traumatic stress disorder, where traumas involved masks, face coverings that may trigger likely flashbacks, could also be exempted. However, she admitted this was "more an exception."

She revealed she has many patients with mental health conditions like psychotic and anxiety disorders, and all of them come to see her with masks on. "None of my patients have felt that wearing a mask triggers any of their symptoms," Jose added.

As many states in the United States experience a surge in COVID-19 cases, misleading videos and posts showing people claiming to be medically exempt from wearing face coverings during the pandemic were spreading on the Internet. Also doing the rounds were "Face Mask Exemption Cards" that claim to exempt anyone who possesses it from wearing a mask because of underlying health conditions. All of these have been later declared fake, ABC News reported