What are the risks of giving breaths without a mask?

Giving breaths without a mask during resuscitation can increase the risk of disease transmission between the rescuer and the victim, particularly if either party has a respiratory illness. It can also lead to inadequate ventilation if the rescuer's breath does not effectively reach the victim's lungs, potentially compromising the effectiveness of the resuscitation efforts. Additionally, the lack of a barrier may create a psychological barrier for bystanders, discouraging them from assisting in emergencies.