The CDC recommends that people wear masks in public settings, at events, gatherings, and anywhere they will be around other people. Effective February 2, 2021, masks are required on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States and in U.S. transportation hubs such as airports and stations.
Wear a Mask that
- Has two or more layers of washable, breathable fabric.
- Completely covers your nose and mouth.
- Fits snugly against the sides of your face and doesn’t have gaps.
- Has a nose wire to prevent air from leaking out of the top of the mask.
Don’t Wear a Mask that
- Are made of fabric that makes it hard to breathe, for example, vinyl.
- Has exhalation valves or vents that allow virus particles to escape.
- Are intended for healthcare workers, including N95 respirators.
How to Wear a Mask
- Be sure to wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before putting on a mask.
- Do not touch the mask when wearing it. If you have to often touch/adjust your mask, it doesn’t fit you properly, and you may need to find a different mask or make adjustments.
- Do NOT wear your mask on your forehead, around your neck, on your chin, under your nose, or only on your nose.
- Scarves, ski masks, and balaclavas are not substitutes for masks.
- Face shields are NOT recommended.
How to Clean your Mask
- Reusable masks should be washed regularly. Always remove masks correctly and wash your hands after handling or touching a used mask.
- Include your mask with your regular laundry.
- Use regular laundry detergent and the warmest appropriate water setting for the cloth used to make the mask.
- Use the highest heat setting and leave it in the dryer until completely dry.
Wear a mask to keep your community, family, and self safe! For more information about safe practices, go to https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/about-face-coverings.html