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The Do’s and Don’ts of Wearing a Cloth Face Mask

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NOTE:  The following information was published May 4, 2020. For current COVID-19 information, visit LVHN.org/COVID-19

By now, most people know that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends wearing a cloth face mask in public places where social distancing may be difficult to maintain, like a grocery store. But it’s important to keep in mind that cloth face masks are only effective if they are worn properly. So, what does that look like? We’ve broken it down. Here are the do’s and don’ts of cloth face masks.

Do

  • Wash your hands before putting on the mask and after touching or removing it.
  • Wear a mask that fits snuggly against your face.
  • Have your mask cover your mouth, nose and chin.
  • Wash your mask at least once a day.
  • Avoid touching your mask while wearing it.

Don’t

  • Don’t wear the mask below your nose or leave your chin uncovered.
  • Don’t rest your mask under your chin.
  • Don’t take off the mask to speak with someone.
  • Don’t wear a mask that is damaged.
  • Don’t place a mask on children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unable to remove the mask without assistance.

For more information and to stay up to date on coronavirus (COVID-19), please visit LVHN.org/COVIDStrong.

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