Stevens was one of 53 universities across the country to participate in the Center for Disease Control’s mask surveillance study titled MASCUP! (Mask Adherence Surveillance at Colleges and Universities Project). The study took place in 21 states at universities including Penn State, Centenary, and William & Mary. The study concluded that across all participating universities, 94% of those observed were wearing a mask. This data had a slight downward trend over time, meaning people were becoming less likely to wear their masks. The study also found that 91% of these people wore their masks correctly.
On Stevens’ campus, the study extended for 8 weeks, starting the week of February 16th and concluding the week of March 29th. (The study was reviewed and approved by Stevens Leadership.) The study was led by Principal Investigator Dr. Vikki Hazelwood of the Biomedical Engineering department, and she was assisted by Study Coordinator Emily Ashbolt, a graduate student here at Stevens. The observations were conducted by 21 Stevens students who underwent training from the CDC to prepare for the data collection and submission. The observations were taken at 13 locations on campus, such as Howe Center, Palmer Circle, and Walker Gym. The sites were monitored for a one-hour period, and the population was observed to see if they were wearing a mask, if the mask was worn correctly, and what type of mask they were wearing.
The results for Stevens’ campus concluded that there was 97% mask adherence, with 94% of the masks being worn correctly. The study also examined mask type, and the breakdown showed that the population wore 56.8% cloth masks, 37.2% surgical masks, 3.0% N95 masks, and 2.9% neck gaiters. The data on the Stevens campus did not fluctuate over the eight-week period, and unlike the general CDC data, did not show that people were becoming less likely to wear their mask.
As the results provided valuable insight into the strong mask compliance on Stevens’ campus, the study also proved beneficial to the student observers. As an observer myself, I learned about research studies and gained experience in data collection, submission, and analysis. It was also a great way to connect with other students with similar interests, especially in a time where there is so much isolation. The study additionally introduced the student observers to the work being conducted at the CDC. The required training was led directly by the CDC, and researchers working on the study held office hours and allowed the students to connect with them to discuss MASCUP! or answer any general questions about public health and the CDC. Each student observer will receive a certificate from the CDC acknowledging their role in the research.
While vaccines are becoming available (and even offered on campus), masks are still an essential preventative measure in curbing the spread of COVID-19. As of April 27th, 2021, the CDC still recommends wearing masks in public settings and requires masks on public transportation. While fullly vaccinated people are no longer required to wear masks when at small outdoor gatherings, they continue to recommend masks for all indoor events. The CDC is continuing to study the effectiveness of masks, and currently recommends double-layered cloth masks that fit snug against one’s face. Additionally, Stevens continues to require masks when on campus, even if an individual is fully vaccinated.
The study itself leads to more questions. For example, the data did not identify which populations were observed, so there was no way to see if mask compliance was lower among students, staff, or outside visitors. Additionally, the study did not address double masking, a guideline that was put in place by the CDC after the study had begun.
Regardless, the study highlights how the Stevens community can work together to create a stronger and healthier future.
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