Now that states have been reopened for some time, many are requiring people to wear masks in most public spaces to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization now recommend cloth masks for the general public believing that the evidence is clear that masks can help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and that the more people wearing masks, the better.
One category of evidence comes from laboratory studies of respiratory droplets and the ability of various masks to block them. Masks may be more effective as a “source control” because they can prevent larger expelled droplets from evaporating into smaller droplets that can travel farther. So it’s important to not only wear a mask but to wear the right types of masks for various settings.
- Be sure your hands are cleaned or sanitized before applying your mask and handle mask by the ear loops or ties
- Wear masks with two or more layers to stop the spread of COVID-19
- Don’t wear masks made of non-breathable fabrics or masks that have exhalation vents or valves that allow virus particles to pass through
- Wear the mask over your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin
- Wear face shields in concert with a proper mask, as sole face shield effectiveness is still undetermined
- Masks should be worn by people two years and older
Remember, wearing a mask in public settings not only protects yourself but also others especially when you practice social distancing and proper hygiene habits.
Be sure to follow CDC and OSHA guidelines for personal and workplace COIVD-19 prevention.