Face Masks For Us is a project by Can’t Stop Columbus, a state-wide volunteer movement to create community resources amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The Face Masks For Us project’s mission is “to provide relevant information about the importance of wearing masks and provide trusted resources to create your own.” In accordance with recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) at Ohio State supports the use of masks but urges you to keep these things in mind.
- When you are around people, wear a mask.
- Wearing a mask while in public is a good way of keeping asymptomatic people from spreading the virus.
- People with COVID-19 symptoms should not be in public.
- Wearing a mask does not erase the need for social distancing, which remains the most important strategy to preventing spread of the virus.
- Proper use of masks requires following these important do’s and don’ts: Don’t touch your face. Wash your hands before you put on and before you take off your mask. Treat your mask as if it has the virus after it’s removed. Don’t share your mask. Cloth masks can be disinfected by washing with detergent and then drying. Surface cleaners may not be effective. A wet mask is ineffective and can harbor germs. Replace your mask if it gets wet. Don’t take masks out of circulation for healthcare professionals. Do follow all other CDC guidance for hand washing and maintaining at least 6 feet of separation.