Masks

Face coverings/masks help stop respiratory droplets from an infected person from spreading through the air and landing on other people and/or surfaces. Since individuals may have COVID-19 without experiencing symptoms, wearing face masks helps prevent the unknowing spread of the virus.

Everyone should be aware of the proper use and limitations of the face coverings/masks. Before wearing the face covering/mask, consider the following
· Do not share face coverings/masks and avoid mixing up your face covering/mask with a co-worker’s face covering/mask.
· Do not use the face coverings/masks if they are soiled, damaged, contaminated or ineffective.
· After the face covering/mask is placed into position again, wash your hands.

Wash the face covering after use
Avoid contact with sick people
Wash hands often with soap and water; use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water aren't available

Perform hand hygiene
Face coverings/masks and : Pinch the mask at the ear loops.
Face covering/Surgical mask: Grasp the ties.
Place over your face.
Face covering/mask: Secure the loops behind your ears.
Face coverings/Surgical mask: Secure upper ties first behind your head and then secure the lower ties.
Adjust the band loops or ties appropriately so the mask fits snugly against your face.
Fit flexible band (if part of the mask) to the nose bridge
Fit snug to face and below chin

Perform hand hygiene
Remove face covering/procedure mask by holding the ear loops.
Proceed as though the front is contaminated so remove carefully without touching.
Remove face coverings /surgical mask by untying the lower ties first, untie upper ties last.
Proceed as though the front is contaminated.
Remove carefully without touching the front. Ensure ties do not fall into clean interior side of face covering/mask.
After removing the face covering /mask inspect for contamination. If soiled, torn or saturated discard the mask in a waste container.
Follow manufacturer’s recommendation for washing if it is a reusable face covering/mask. Typically machine wash in hot water and a hot drying cycle. Placing the face coverings/masks in a wash bag used for delicate items may also be advisable. If it is a disposable face covering/mask discard the mask in a waste container.
Wash your hands or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer after your face covering/ mask is removed and handled in any way.

Always wear a mask over your nose and mouth in public spaces.
Even if you don't feel sick, germs can spread to others through respiratory droplets produced by breathing talking, sneezing or coughing.

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