MSNBC medical pundit claims it’s time to bring masks back ‘as school season starts’

During an appearance on Jose Diaz-Balart Reports discussing an uptick in COVID hospitalizations, Patel stated, "Let me start with good news. We are not seeing anywhere near the dramatic rises we have seen in previous summers or previous years, and that's good news. That's because a large part of the population has already been infected or vaccinated or both, several times.”

“So, what I think people need to know is that I would just put people on alert that being in those crowded spaces, think about the cost of a cold, and sometimes many people do not have any symptoms.”

“A mask can be your best friend. Back in time, we had it in the back of our coats and pockets and backpacks. Time to bring them out again, and especially as the school season starts. We don't want to see kids missing school for things we could have prevented."

The conversation seemed more like a time filler, even as Diaz-Balart started by admitting the situation was not grim, while still trying to stir up concern, “If you've noticed more of your friends, neighbors, loved ones are testing positive for COVID, you’re not alone. According to the CDC, COVID-19 hospitalizations are up 12 percent from last week and while we’re nowhere near previous levels, it’s still raising concerns.”