Facemasks

​

First and foremost, please do not use surgical masks or N95 respirators unless medically necessary. These are in short supply and needed for healthcare workers and medical first responders. 

​

The CDC is recommending facemasks when you go in public to try to slow the spread of COVID-19. We know that the coronavirus is spread by droplets in our breath, which can come from coughing, sneezing, talking, or even just breathing. We also know that some people may be spreading the coronavirus without even knowing they have it, because they don't have any symptoms. This is called "asymptomatic." 

​

Wearing a facemask reduces the amount of droplets that you spread in the community. If you have the coronavirus and don't have any symptoms, you may spread it to others without even knowing it. Wearing a facemask protects others when you have to go out. 

​

The best thing to do is practice good social distancing. Only go out when you absolutely have to, such as to get food or get medications. Stay at least 6 feet away from other people. 6 feet is roughly two shopping carts, two arms' length, or the length of a twin bed.  Also, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly and carefully before AND after going out.  Here is a great video about hand washing on YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEzJ_QKjT14

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

If you have to go out, wear a facemask if you can. You can make one from things you may have around the house.  Here is a video on how to make a mask:  https://youtu.be/tPx1yqvJgf4.  You can order them from online sites like Etsy:  https://www.etsy.com/search?q=face%20mask

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

Many people who have difficulty hearing need to see a person's mouth when they are talking.  Hear Wisconsin is offering free masks with clear plastic that let you see someone's mouth while they are wearing a mask.  You can apply for a free mask at the following website:  https://hearwi.org/

​

IMPORTANT: Children under 2, those who have trouble breathing, and anyone who cannot remove the facemask by themselves should NOT be wearing a facemask. 

​