All About Masks

Masks are an easy way we can try to prevent the spread of our respiratory droplets from one person to another. Respiratory droplets from a person that has an infection with COVID-19 can spread and cause others to get sick. Wearing a mask can help contain those droplets to reduce the risk to others. When you are wearing a mask, it is important everyone remembers to cover their nose too! Our noses can spread respiratory droplets too.

If you wear a cloth mask, ideally, it should have at least two layers and be a fabric that you can breathe in. Something like vinyl would be too difficult to breathe in. Avoid masks with an exhalation valve or vent because it does not keep your respiratory droplets from spreading to others.

At this time there isn’t enough research to tell us if they are as effective as a mask or not effective. It is important that if they are worn, the type of gaiter has two layers of fabric.

Nationally, there are still ongoing shortages of N95 respirators. The priority is for healthcare workers to have access to N95 respirators.

If you are wearing a cloth mask at work you can wear it for your shift unless it becomes dirty or wet in which case you want to put on a new cloth mask. If you wear your cloth mask all day, you should wash it and dry it before wearing it again. Soap and water can be used to clean the cloth mask. If you use a disinfectant, make sure you follow safe practices when using it, the EPA has a resource available here.

If you are wearing a procedural mask, you want to discard it in the trash if it becomes wet or dirty.

Masks should not be worn by children younger than two years old, anyone who has trouble breathing or anyone who cannot remove a mask without help. It may also be difficult for individuals with an intellectual or developmental disability, or sensory sensitivities to wear a mask. Consult with a healthcare provider to see what advice they may have that is specific to your needs.

Wearing a mask can make it difficult for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing to read lips to help them communicate. Consider wearing a mask with a clear window or use written communication or closed captioning. Try to decrease the background noise too. You can also your mobile phone as a tool—simply enter the question or information you are trying to share as a text message and share the screen.
 

When you take your mask off, don’t touch the front of it. Handle it by the ear loops or ties and place it in a bag or into the wash to be cleaned. Make sure you wash your hands with soap or water or use hand sanitizer after taking off your mask.