Exactly. The idea of the populace all wearing masks out and...

Exactly. The idea of the populace all wearing masks out and about is a recipe for un-intended consequences.
Doctors, dentists, surgeons, etc wear them when they are up close and personal, as a physical barrier, to prevent the obvious.
Coughing, sneezing, spraying, in your face.
Ever been in a lift, everyone masked up, and someone farts.
They all still know it happened!!