What to know about using cloth masks and preventing the spread of coronavirus
Craig LyonsLANSING – Michigan and federal health officials are now telling people to wear cloth masks as part of the latest effort to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently recommended people wear a cloth face mask when going to places where community spread is possible, including grocery stores, gas stations and pharmacies, or where social distancing could be difficult.
Here's what you need to know about cloth masks:
How does a cloth face mask protect me?
A cloth mask has two purposes in preventing the spread of COVID-19: It prevents someone from spreading the virus if they’ve not shown symptoms or are asymptomatic, and it stops them from touching their face, a leading source of transmission.
The primary purpose of a mask is more to prevent someone from spreading the virus than it is to prevent them from contracting it, the CDC said. A person who has the virus can spread it through the air or through particles deposited on a surface.
Masks also help keep people from touching their faces, Ingham County Health Officer Linda Vail said. That's a primary way the virus is spread between people and surfaces.
Where can I find a cloth mask?
Health officials say medical-type masks should be reserved for health care workers, but a homemade cloth mask, bandana, scarf or handkerchief will work.
The CDC has several templates for people to make a mask at home, even how to repurpose and old T-shirt.
How to make your own face mask to help stop the spread of the coronavirus
Should I get an N-95 mask or surgical mask?
Surgical masks or N-95 masks are in short supply and should be reserved for medical professionals and first responders, the CDC said.
Vail said a cloth mask will do the job sufficiently.
“The masks should not be medical masks,” Vail said.
What's the best type of cloth mask?
A cloth mask should cover your mouth and nose.
The CDC has given tips on what makes a cloth mask most effective against the virus:
- It should fit snugly but comfortably against the sides of a person’s face.
- It should be secured with ties or loops around the ears.
- It should include multiple layers of fabric.
- It should allow for breathing without restriction.
- It should be able to be laundered and dried without damage.
How should I clean a mask?
Putting a cloth mask in with regular laundry should sufficiently clean it. Even laundry soap should break down the virus.
The masks should be washed regularly.
If people have a disposable mask, like a painters' mask, they should try to avoid reusing them, health officials say.
The CDC does not recommend reusing a disposable face mask.
Should I still take other precautions?
Yes.
The CDC says people should still practice social distancing and take other preventative actions, including frequently washing their hands.
There are steps residents can take to prevent spread of flu and the common cold that will also help prevent COVID-19, including:
- Washing your hands with soap and water.
- Avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or upper sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoiding contact with people who are sick.
- Staying home if you are sick and contact your healthcare provider.
More information on COVID-19 in Michigan is online at Michigan.gov/coronavirus.
Contact reporter Craig Lyons at 517-377-1047 or calyons@lsj.com. Follow him on Twitter @craigalyons.