Why does Ellie wear a mask if she’s immune?

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Ellie wears a gas mask despite being immune to the Cordyceps infection because her immunity is a secret that she needs to keep hidden from dangerous people who might exploit her condition, and wearing a mask allows her to blend in with others in infected areas. By wearing a mask, Ellie is able to protect herself from potential threats while also avoiding drawing attention to her unique condition, which could have long-lasting effects on the story of The Last of Us.

Understanding Ellie’s Immunity

The Cause of Ellie’s Immunity

Ellie’s immunity is a result of the Cordyceps fungus already being present in her system, which makes any new Cordyceps that enter her body think she is already infected, rendering her immune to its effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why was Ellie the only one immune?: Ellie’s immunity comes from the Cordyceps fungus already being present in her system, which occurred when her mother, Anna, was bitten by an Infected while giving birth to Ellie.
2. Does Ellie cure the virus?: Unfortunately, Ellie’s immunity is not turned into a cure for the Cordyceps infection, and she chooses to believe that Joel was telling the truth about the Fireflies.
3. Why is Joel not infected?: Joel likely avoided infection by not eating contaminated food, such as pancakes, biscuits, and cake, which may have been tainted with Cordyceps-infected flour or sugar.
4. Did Ellie lose her immunity?: No, Ellie was vaccinated and the bite she received as a teenager had little effect on her because her body already knew how to fight off the infection.
5. How did Joel know Ellie was immune?: Joel discovered Ellie’s immunity when they reached the Fireflies in Salt Lake City, where the doctor’s tests revealed that Ellie’s body was able to fight off the Cordyceps infection.
6. Why did the infected kiss Tess?: The Infected kissed Tess to transfer Cordyceps fungi into her body through an open-mouthed kiss, allowing the fungi to infect her.
7. How did Ellie survive the bite?: Ellie survived the bite because the Cordyceps fungus already in her system made any new Cordyceps think she was already infected, rendering her immune.
8. Does Ellie find out Joel lied?: Yes, Ellie eventually discovers that Joel lied to her about the Fireflies and their intentions, leading to a rift in their relationship.
9. Why does Ellie cut the Infected?: Ellie cuts the Infected as a way of coping with her emotions and to avenge the people she has lost, such as Riley and Tess.
10. How did Ellie know Tess is infected?: Ellie realized Tess was infected when she saw the bite mark on her shoulder, which indicated that she had been bitten by a Runner.
11. Can Ellie spread the infection?: It is unlikely that Ellie can infect others, as her body is able to fight off the Cordyceps infection, and there is no evidence to suggest that she can transmit the fungus to others.
12. How long was Ellie infected when Joel found her?: Ellie was bitten about 3 weeks before Joel found her, and she had already developed immunity to the Cordyceps infection.
13. Were there other immune like Ellie?: So far, there are no other known immune survivors like Ellie, making her a unique individual in the world of The Last of Us.
14. Was Tess in love with Joel?: The relationship between Tess and Joel is uncertain, but it is clear that they cared for each other and had a strong partnership.
15. Why did Tess open her mouth?: Tess allowed the Infected to kissed her, which enabled the Cordyceps fungi to enter her body, because she was resigned to her fate and chose not to fight back.