There are many Covid variants appearing., and it will most likely continue for a long time. It seems at least here in the U.S. right now (and probably though out the world) that the variants are less severe but a lot more contagious. I know several people who have caught a variant. You end up with various symptoms, many that are similar to the common cold but usually more difficult to get rid of. Everyone seems to be different in what symptoms they contract. It could last days or weeks before it subsides. Yes, masks are a pain in the neck, of course it won't happen but if everyone wore masks all the time it would limit the ability for people to spread air borne viruses. To each his own. For those who have weaker immunity system due to age or various conditions a good mask is definitely recommended.