A lower initial load leading to less severe disease makes intuitive sense (less opportunity for the infection to outpace the immune response) and whilst not pro

A lower initial load leading to less severe disease makes intuitive sense (less opportunity for the infection to outpace the immune response) and whilst not proved, a lot of virology experts think it's plausible. There is at least some evidence for it, e.g. a military base study that found less severe disease cases once masks started being worn.