Masks may prevent you from getting or spreading the virus, but they can’t save you from the embarrassment of a loud sneeze.
Back in the day, you might be worried someone would catch you picking your nose or working out a wedgie. But here in 2021? It feels like the worst thing you can do is come across as “infected.”
Case and point: a new survey found 56% of people feel judged by others when they sneeze or cough… even when they’re masked-up (maybe because of the way people stare when you do?)
You probably never thought having a light tickle in your throat would ever give you an anxiety attack, but here we are. Over half the survey said they experience a moment of panic whenever the urge to sneeze comes on. The study also found top thought that pops into people’s heads in these moments is “great, now people think I’m sick.”
And spoiler: Yes we do.
Surely the pandemic has increased sneeze-judgment but the hatred of them has been brewing for a while. For example, the average American says they’ll allow only four sneezes before they consider it annoying and they’re only willing to give out the “bless yous.” Sorry people with allergies, we’ve got work to do.
HT: StudyFinds