Recent studies show that people can transmit COVID-19 even before they are showing symptoms of the virus. The virus is spread when infected persons speak, cough or sneeze around others who are in close proximity to them.
In light of this new evidence, the CDC now recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain. These face coverings are recommended especially in areas of significant community-based transmission (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies). Cloth face coverings can help to slow the spread of the virus from transmitting to others when people may not know they are carrying the virus.
It is important to remember these masks are protecting others around you, not protecting you from them. The masks can be used as an additional, voluntary public health measure.
REMEMBER WEARING A MASK DOES NOT REPLACE THE SOCIAL DISTANCING. 6-feet social distancing remains important to slowing the spread of the virus. The cloth face coverings recommended are NOT surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers.
**Cloth face coverings should be routinely washed in a washing machine. Launder items by using the warmest appropriate water setting and dry items completely.
**Do Not touch face, eyes, nose or mouth when removing the mask and WASH HANDS IMMEDIATELY after removing.
**Keep mask in place while talking and out in the public settings. Make sure it covers your nose and mouth.
**Do NOT use mask on children under 2.
**Remember to Stay Home.
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