The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the use of cloth face coverings as an additional public health measure to prevent and mitigate the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) to those around them. Recent data about how COVID-19 spreads before people show symptoms (pre-symptomatic) or people without symptoms (asymptomatic).

Mitigating the risk of spread by people who are infected, but not sick, is critical to preventing the spread of COVID-19.

CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain. For example, it is recommended that you wear face masks at the grocery store, pharmacies or to pick up other necessities and especially in areas of significant community-based transmission. The cloth face cover is not a substitute for social distancing. Continue to keep at least 6 feet between yourself and others. 

Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age two, or on anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance. Do not use a facemask meant for a healthcare worker, such as a surgical mask or N95 respirator mask.

You can stay informed by reviewing the coronavirus.gov.