How to Properly Use Cloth Face Coverings, April 24

CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies), especially in areas of significant community-based transmission. It is critical to emphasize that, even when wearing a mask, maintaining 6-feet social distancing remains important to slowing the spread of the virus. CDC also advises the use of simple cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others. Cloth face coverings fashioned from household items or made at home from common materials at low cost can be used as an additional, voluntary public health measure. Cloth face coverings should: • fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face; • be secured with ties or ear loops; • include multiple layers of fabric; • allow for breathing without restriction; • be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape; Individuals should be careful not to touch their eyes, nose, and mouth when removing their face covering and wash hands immediately after removing. Cloth face coverings should be routinely washed depending on the frequency of use. Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance. Learn more from CDC about the use of cloth face coverings and how to make your own – includes both sew and no-sew instructions. You can also find a template for sewing cloth face coverings for yourself and your family or for donation on our COVID-19 page on our website (scroll down to Volunteer Opportunities). For questions regarding COVID-19 and the most up to date guidance, please email covid19.questions@chw.coos.or.us or visit our COVID-19 page on our website.