The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended that Americans wear cloth face coverings (masks) in public to help slow the spread of COVID-19. This recommendation is being made based on studies that show a significant proportion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and can transmit the virus to others in close proximity, through speaking, coughing, sneezing or other means.

Ohio Department of Health Director Amy Acton, M.D., MPH, strongly recommends that Ohioans take the following actions:

• Use coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain, such as grocery stores, pharmacies, and public parks.
• Maintain 6-feet social distancing whenever possible, even if you are wearing a face covering.
• DO NOT place cloth face coverings on children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
• DO NOT use medical supply masks, which must be reserved for healthcare workers, first responders, and people who are known to be sick.
• Make cloth face coverings from household items or common materials. Use multiple layers of a fabric that does not damage or lose shape when laundered or machine dried.
• Support small businesses selling fabric masks at a reasonable price, but watch out for scammers offering high-priced or so-called superior masks.

Other Dos and Don’ts

• DO use coverings that fit snugly but comfortably and allow for breathing without restriction. Secure behind the head with ties or ear loops. Wear horizontally.
• DO NOT touch the mask while wearing it. If you do, wash your hands immediately.
• DO ensure that your nose, mouth, and chin are covered at all times.
• DO NOT allow the mask to slip under your nose and DO NOT untie straps/unhook ear loops.
• DO wash your hands before putting on and immediately after removing.
• DO NOT touch your eyes, nose, or mouth when removing the face covering.
• DO launder coverings after each use.
• DO NOT wear when wet from laundering or from spit or mucus.

For answers to your COVID-19 questions, call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634).