Recommendations from the Cleveland Clinic

To prevent the spread of COVID-19, the wearing of masks and other facial coverings has become mandatory in most public areas. But how effective are these cloth facial coverings? In an article from Consult QD (May 5, 2020), Raed Dweik, MD, Chair of Cleveland Clinic’s Respiratory Institute and Steven Gordon, MD, Chair of Cleveland Clinic’s Department of Infectious Disease were asked these questions. You can read the full interview here.

Should I wear a face mask out in public?

The CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public. Most noteworthy in places where it’s hard to maintain at least 6 feet of distance between yourself and another person. Cloth face masks are recommended because we now know individuals with COVID-19 could have mild or no symptoms. Wearing a cloth mask does not replace the need for physical distancing.

The cloth face coverings recommended by the CDC are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Consequently these should be reserved for healthcare workers and first responders.

Why should I wear a cloth mask?

• A cloth mask can help individuals cover a cough or sneeze; reducing the spread of germs.

• A cloth mask will not prevent you from breathing in respiratory droplets which carry a virus, like COVID-19.

• Some people with COVID-19 have mild to no symptoms, and may be spreading the virus unknowingly. Cloth masks could help cut down how far the virus spreads.

• Cloth masks can prevent you from touching your face, and can be a visual reminder to practice social distancing.

Our masks can help. They protect against large-particle droplets and help block exhaled droplets to prevent the further spread of contagions.