Statistical Reproducibility of Meta-Analysis for Medical Mask Use in Community Settings to Prevent Airborne Respiratory Virus Infection

Many US states, cities, and counties implemented public masking orders during the coronavirus (COVID) pandemic on notion that this intervention would delay flatten epidemic peak largely benefit health outcomes. A p-value plot can provide insights into possible inappropriateness (incorrectness) of assumptions a statistical model. It be used to confirm, disprove, or identify ambiguity (uncertainty) in meta-analytic finding research claim. P-value plotting was evaluate reproducibility meta-analysis studies for disposable medical (surgical) mask use community settings prevent airborne respiratory virus infection. Eight (seven meta-analysis, one systematic review) published between 1 January 2020 7 December 2022 were evaluated. Base randomized control trials with outcomes diagnosis laboratory-confirmed viral (Influenza COVID) illness. Self-reported illness excluded from evaluation because awareness bias. No evidence observed infection six plots (five review). Research claims no three review reproduced plots. two other not suggesting irreproducibility these claims. Insufficient data available construct over-reliance self-reported Independent findings show existing fail demonstrate