By Katie McCallum | Houston Methodist
April 7, 2020 – The question of whether to wear a mask has been the subject of much discussion since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Initially, health authorities advised those who were healthy to refrain from using face masks, as these supplies were crucial for frontline medical personnel. There was also concern that mask-wearing might lead to a misplaced sense of security, causing individuals to venture out more frequently and neglect social distancing guidelines.
As the pandemic progressed and the situation worsened, public health guidance regarding face coverings evolved. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now advocates for the use of cloth masks in public spaces, particularly in areas experiencing significant community transmission.
If you’re uncertain about mask guidelines and seeking clarity, here are four essential points regarding the updated recommendations for face coverings.
Changes in face covering guidelines reflect new insights
At the onset of the pandemic, it became clear how vital it was to implement measures that prevent COVID-19 infection, such as hand hygiene, adhering to social distancing, and regularly disinfecting high-touch surfaces.
As the virus spread, further insights emerged regarding safety protocols for individuals showing symptoms of COVID-19, including proper cough etiquette and self-isolation.
But what happens if someone is infected without showing symptoms?
Evidence has increasingly demonstrated that individuals can transmit COVID-19 even when they are asymptomatic, which raises two critical concerns. Firstly, the incubation period can span from two to 14 days, during which an infected person can unknowingly spread the virus. Secondly, a notable percentage of individuals, potentially around 25%, may never exhibit symptoms at all, as noted by Dr. Robert Redfield, director of the CDC.
Research has revealed that asymptomatic carriers are more common than previously thought, and they indeed play a role in the transmission of the virus.
In summary, even if you feel well, you could still carry and transmit COVID-19.
Consequently, the CDC now recommends that the public don cloth face coverings to reduce the spread of the virus, especially in regions with community transmission. This guidance is primarily aimed at preventing individuals from unwittingly infecting others rather than solely protecting oneself from the virus.
Understanding the distinction between cloth coverings and surgical masks
With the shift in recommendations established, let’s discuss what constitutes an appropriate face covering.
A cloth face covering is a homemade fabric mask fashioned from easily accessible materials, such as a bandana or an old t-shirt.
Importantly, cloth coverings are not interchangeable with surgical masks or N-95 respirators, which should remain reserved for healthcare workers. If you possess unused surgical or N-95 masks, consider donating them to local medical facilities.
How to properly create and wear a face covering
If you’re unsure about crafting your own cloth face covering, you’re not alone. The CDC offers step-by-step guidance for making various homemade masks, including a design using scissors and an old t-shirt, as well as sewn options and bandana masks (requiring rubber bands and a coffee filter).
Regardless of your chosen method, keep these tips in mind:
- Do ensure it fits snugly against your face covering both your nose and mouth.
- Do secure it properly (rubber bands may help).
- Do use multiple layers of fabric.
- Do wash it regularly in hot water.
- Don’t allow it to obstruct your breathing.
- Don’t touch your face, including your eyes, nose, or mouth while removing it, and wash your hands immediately afterward.
- Don’t use a mask that has lost its shape or effectiveness post-wash.
Moreover, cloth face coverings are not advisable for certain individuals, such as:
- Children under 2 years of age
- Individuals with breathing difficulties
- Those unable to remove the mask without assistance
Continuing to prioritize social distancing is essential
While cloth face coverings are recommended to help mitigate the transmission of COVID-19, they do not substitute for social distancing or existing stay-at-home orders.
Maintaining social distance remains the most effective method for community-level efforts to “flatten the curve”—protecting high-risk populations and alleviating the strain on healthcare systems. Epidemiological models indicate that without ongoing social distancing, COVID-19 cases could surge dramatically in the coming weeks.
This means that, even with a cloth face covering available, it is crucial to stay home as much as possible and maintain a six-foot distance from others when necessary.
Worried you might have COVID-19?
If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, you have access to a Virtual Urgent Care provider 24/7. They will help assess whether testing is necessary and guide you on next steps.
For further information, visit https://www.houstonmethodist.org/blog/articles/2020/apr/coronavirus-what-you-need-to-know-about-the-new-cloth-face-covering-recommendations/
