Face masks in public now recommended by Whatcom County Public Health Officials

Face masks are no longer just recommended for health professionals — but the general public as well, according to Whatcom County public health officials.

The Whatcom County Health Department posted information to its website Saturday afternoon, April 4, encouraging citizens to wear cloth masks over their faces in public to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, the new coronavirus.

Wearing cloth masks in public is essential because they can block the spread of the virus through the air when someone speaks, coughs or sneezes. It is also important to remember that the virus can be spread by someone who may not show symptoms at all or until a few days later.

However, wearing a face cloth in public can only do so much. People must continue to wash hands frequently and stay home as much as possible. When having to leave the house, avoid touching your face and being around people who may be sick.

“Handwashing and social distancing are still our most effective, proven strategies to limit the spread of disease in our community,” according to the post. “Wearing a cloth mask adds to those measures. It is not a substitute for them.

“Although the evidence is limited about cloth face coverings protecting you from becoming infected, masks will help slow the spread to others if you are infected and have no symptoms.”

The Health Department discourages the public from wearing medical-grade masks like N95 respirators as they are in short supply and should be saved for health professionals.

Keeping your cloth masks clean and sterile is also very important, beginning with handwashing immediately after putting on the mask or after taking it off. People ideally should wash the masks after each use with detergent and hot water. You should discard your mask if it no longer covers your mouth or nose as well or if it has any holes or doesn’t stay on your face.

Scarfs and bandanas are recommended as a substitute if you do not have a cloth mask.

This story was originally published April 5, 2020 at 11:09 AM with the headline "Face masks in public now recommended by Whatcom County Public Health Officials."