Maybe they realized there is a cost to our communities and our humanity of the constant wearing of masks. We are social creatures and facial expression is part of the way we communicate. So given that Covid is 99% survivable maybe they decided the costs did not offset the benefits.

On the other hand it sounds like if they follow the doom and gloom prophets they will be living masked in their homes huddled together in fear. Well at least those who have someone to huddle with. The rest will be totally alone