Unfortunately, Americans are too selfish to bother with masks if all it does it helps others from getting sick, so the best way to get them to wear masks is to let them believe the lie that it helps them from getting sick as well.

Of course, some may argue that the propounding such a lie is worse than the help it causes in keeping diseases from spreading as easily. But as a utilitarian, I have to say that I'd prefer the lie to exist if it meant people would wear masks when they're sick.