Remember to always follow the important guidelines for How to Protect Yourself outlined by the CDC and the OSHA guidelines to Prevent Worker Exposure to Coronavirus.
CDC RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CLOTH FACE COVERINGS
On April 3, the CDC recommended the use of cloth face coverings, on a voluntary basis, “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 important to understand that the guidance from the CDC goes on to state the following:
It is critical to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social distancing remains important to slowing the spread of the virus. CDC is additionally advising 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.
Please review the CDC webpage on Use of Cloth Face Coverings to Help Slow the Spread of COVID-19, Cloth Face Covers FAQs, and the How to Protect Yourself for guidance on wearing cloth face coverings.
The recommendation to use cloth face coverings, on a voluntary basis, where the 6-feet of social distance is difficult to maintain is very strong advice. However, we want to make sure that everyone fully understands the CDC’s guidance.
- This is NOT a replacement for maintaining the 6-feet of distancing from other people.
- The Cloth Face Coverings are NOT N-95 respirators, or surgical masks.
- The Cloth Face Coverings do NOT constitute personal protective equipment or significantly protect the wearer from exposure.
The use of Cloth Face Coverings is intended to “help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others.” By wearing a Cloth Face Covering and, when possible, maintaining 6-feet of social distancing, each of us will help to protect others. The best way to Protect Yourself is to still practice good hygiene:
- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available containing at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Stay home as much as possible. Keep 6-feet between yourself and others. The cloth face cover is NOT a substitute for social distancing.
- Cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue when possible or your elbow, not your hands.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces regularly, including tables, countertops, light switches, cell phones, door handles, toilets, faucets, sinks, and other frequently touched items.
Thank you and continue to stay safe!