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Simple cloth face coverings can slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Because people can have it and spread it and not feel sick, masks help protect others.

The CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are hard to keep. That includes grocery and drug stores.

If you can’t find a face covering to buy, you may need to get creative and make one. Don’t worry if you don’t have a sewing machine. You can make one from things you have around the house.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention   says cloth face coverings should:

• Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
• Be secured with ties or loops around the ears
• Have multiple layers of fabric
• Let you breath without restriction
• Be able to be machine washed and dried without damage or change to shape

Do not use cloth face coverings on children under age 2, advises the CDC. They are also not safe for people who have trouble breathing or can’t remove the covering without help.

Remember, surgical masks or N-95 respirators are reserved for health care workers and other medical first responders, the CDC says. A cloth mask is fine for everyday use.

Safely Removing the Face Covering

Be careful not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth while removing the face covering. Wash your hands right after removing it.

Check out these patterns and tips   for making your cloth face coverings. Or watch this video from the U.S. Surgeon General, How To Make Your Own Face Covering.  

Source: Use of Cloth Face Coverings to Help Slow the Spread of COVID-19,   Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020

New CDC Guidelines 2022