Before revision:  This work shows that current research is consistent with recommendations for using masks at a population level in regions in which there is transmission of COVID-19, and that nonlinear effects and statistical considerations regarding the percentage of exposures for which the mask is worn must be taken into account when designing empirical studies and interpreting their results.
After revision:  This work shows that current research is consistent with masks protecting against respiratory infections and (2) that nonlinear effects and statistical considerations regarding the percentage of exposures for which the mask is worn must be taken into account when designing empirical studies and interpreting their results.