Researchers in Mexico have developed a nose-only COVID-19 mask designed for people to wear while eating and drinking.

The mask, which was widely mocked online after it was featured in a Reuters video on Wednesday, is meant to be worn similarly to a typical mask with straps behind the ears but the fabric solely covers the nasal area instead of both the nose and mouth.

The widely circulated video shows a man and a woman sitting down to eat at the same table and taking off their regular masks to reveal that they are also wearing the nose-only mask.

The pair then eat and drink while wearing nose-only masks.

Researchers in Mexico have made a nose-only Covid mask, which they say reduces the risk of infection of coronavirus during eating and talking. pic.twitter.com/ArUEGZaJj3

— CBS News (@CBSNews) March 24, 2021

The World Health Organization recommends the public wear masks that provide coverage over the nose, mouth and chin.

The nose-mask was widely mocked on Twitter, with many comparing the nose-mask to a clown nose.

I think this is the most appropriate🤡 pic.twitter.com/5JZC0JEUuB

— Mestre Rei (@maesterking01) March 24, 2021

Lol perfect

— Robert (@bSmithMagic) March 24, 2021

BREAKING NEWS: The circus is in town. (sound on) pic.twitter.com/0g0X5sKBl8

— PJM (@PJM75TWEETS) March 24, 2021

No, that's Ghislane Maxwell. pic.twitter.com/BpE7KU3FtH

— Bert Gilfoyle 😷🏡💻 (@bert_gilfoyle) March 24, 2021

While it helps, it still doesn’t stop the emission of droplets from the mouth, nor does it prevent COVID from entering via the mouth. So if you are going to eat or drink around others, it helps, but you are still at elevated risk as are those around you.

— Dan Fox (@danfox_mi) March 24, 2021