Shortly after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the CDC began recommending the use of cloth face coverings. With this recommendation started the questions from family & friends. What type of mask? When should I wear a mask? How do I wear a mask? Any tips? Here are the answers to those many questions!
We will answer all those questions (and more!) below, but first, the most important part of wearing a mask...
You must continue to maintain social distancing even while wearing a mask.
Just because you are wearing a mask does not mean you can visit your friends, hang out with family, or gather in groups. No exceptions.
Now that we have that part covered, let's move on to the mask questions.
When do I wear a mask?
Hopefully, your state has mandated shelter-in-place orders. This means that only essential travel and business should be happening. Otherwise, you should be at home.
When you do go out, it should only be for a short period of time. This isn't the time to explore new places or browse around the store.
If you are going out where maintaining a distance of 6 feet would be difficult; wear a mask. This could be running errands, grocery shopping, or doctor visits. When venturing out for these types of activities, have your mask ready to wear.
Walking outside, biking, or running? You do not need to wear a mask during these activities as it's easier to maintain social distance. Walk in the grass or run on the street (safely!) if others are walking your direction. Be mindful of others as you enjoy some well deserved time outside.
At home, you should be able to walk freely around without worry. The only time a mask should be worn at home is if you are coughing or showing any other signs/symptoms of COVID-19 and there are others in the house that you want to protect from the virus. If this is the case, make sure you are self-isolating in a room and limiting your exposure to others.
Remember, handwashing is key to preventing the spread of this virus, so wash your hands often when at home.
What type of mask do I wear?
Unless you are a healthcare professional, you should not be wearing a respirator, N-95 mask, or surgical masks. Please, if you have these available, donate them to your local hospital system.
For the general public, homemade cloth masks, handkerchiefs, or scarfs should work well, if they are made correctly. There are plenty of YouTube videos and Pinterest suggestions on how to make a mask. Even the CDC even has three handy instructions on making a mask, including new-sew options.
Here are some things to consider when making your mask:
Fabric that you can breathe through, preferably cotton or other tight, woven fabric, in multiple layers.
Homemade filter inserts for homemade masks are also helpful, such as cotton t-shirt fabric or cotton interfacing.
Large enough to cover your nose, mouth and fit snug with minimal gaps
Adjustable wire (ie. pipe cleaners, floral wire, crafting wire) is helpful around the nose to keep the mask from inching up on your face and keep from glasses fogging.
If making your own mask, have the inside fabric different than the outside fabric so you don't wear the wrong side towards your face.
Elastic ear loops should not be tight enough to cause discomfort behind your ears otherwise you could cause some pretty signification skin irritation
Ties can work to secure the mask as long as two are present, one above and one below the ears to keep secure.
Here's the other catch. Once you put them on, you shouldn't touch them again. Make sure the mask you wear fits correctly before going out the first time.
How do I put a mask on?
Any mask you wear should cover both the nose and the mouth, and preferably wrap under your chin. The mask should not slip off or need to be readjusted often, otherwise you increase your risk of infection.
Why is your risk increased? Because you are using your hands (that might have the virus or other bacteria on it) and touching close to your face, which is how you transmit the infection.
Here are the steps for putting your mask on:
The first step is to wash your hands. If you are in the car, use hand gel or hand wipe.
Open up the mask, and either tie or secure the ear loops in place.
Adjust the areas around the nose. Then make certain the areas around the lower chin are in place and snug.
Once those are in place, do not touch the mask again.
Once the mask is on and secure, keep your hands off it. You're in the mask until you are in your car about to drive home or back home after finishing your errands.
How do I take a mask off?
Since you have been out and about, your hands are contaminated. Wash or gel your hands well before touching the mask.
When removing the mask, the best way to keep the inside of the mask as clean is to not touch the mask
Loop your fingers behind your ears and unhook one side and then pull the mask around to free the other side.
For masks with ties - untie the bottom first, and when you untie the top lift it away from your face.
If you are in your car, place the mask in a brown paper bag (plastic can trap condensation if the mask is slightly damp). When at home for mask removal, lay it flat to let dry.
How do I care for the mask?
Since you should be wearing a homemade mask, these should be washed after each use. If that isn't possible, let dry out in the sun, or throw them in the dryer for a bit on high heat.
Do not share masks. Have each family member have their own set of masks to wear and store separately from others.
The is certainly a difficult time for many as we are in our homes, away from our family, friends, daily routine and activities. Even going to the grocery store can give the most stoic individual increased stress or anxiety.
Remember, we will get through this pandemic together. Consider wearing a mask as one additional step that you can do to help protect yourself and protect others.
There is no one way to help prevent catching COVID-19, but taking small steps, such as covering your face, may make a difference in your health or of someone you love.
Stay safe, everyone.
With COVID-19 still running rampant across our country, several practices are making the switch to telehealth appointments.
We know this can be scary and confusing for many, which is why we’ve created a FREE resource to help you adjust to this new form of virtual medicine.
To get started, simply click the link below!