*reduction after state mask mandates in the united states. It's an important distinction because mask mandates in the US were followed at varying levels, from relatively stringent to barely at all. Separately, I don't think anyone ever claimed masks (outside of a properly fitted n95) stop the virus, only that it reduces the spread. Lastly, if an area's hospitals have only a few open ICU beds available, then even 2% would be significant enough to warrant mandates in the future.