How and When Should I Wear a Mask?

When should I wear a mask?

The simple answer is when out in public and near others, you should always wear a mask in addition to social distancing until we understand COVID-19 more as we do with the flu and other common viruses. Masks are not always a family favorite, however, they do help to keep the family safe. Masks help stop the spread of viruses, like Covid. Wearing a mask prevents you from breathing in airborne germs, and prevents germs from physically reaching your mouth or nose. Masks also help to keep germs you would spread from leaving the area around your mouth and nose. A mask is a barrier that helps stop the spread of viruses and other airborne pathogens and diseases. 

From Grandma to little Susie, masks help keep everyone in the family safe from the spread of germs, and specifically the Covid-19 virus. You may ask, how is wearing a mask especially effective against the coronavirus? The answer is simple: unlike the flu, our immune systems aren’t prepared to have COVID enter our bodies. This alone doesn’t stop the spread of Covid-19, but it is one small way we can each keep one another healthy, slow the spread of this virus and lessen the consequences of this pandemic. To err on the side of caution, consider wearing a mask to keep your friends, family, and the world a safer place!

How should I wear a mask?

First, choose a mask that has two or more layers of washable, breathable fabric. If you wear glasses, find a mask that fits closely over your nose or one that has a nose wire to limit fogging. Once you have found a mask, completely cover your mouth and nose with the mask, secure it under your chin, tie or slip the loops over your ears and adjust it accordingly. Fit snugly against the sides of your face and make sure there are no gaps. This will prevent particulate matter from entering or escaping your mask. Also, make sure your mask is loose enough you can breathe. If you need to continuously adjust your mask, you may need to find a different type or brand. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, mouth, or face when wearing a mask. Doing so may lead to an increased risk of infection through the transfer of water droplets to or from your hands. If you need to adjust your mask, only touch the strings or straps around your ears and wash or sanitize your hands thoroughly before and after. This will maximize the effects of effectively wearing a mask.

Note: Masks should be washed or rotated routinely to improve their efficiency.