The U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended on Friday that the public wear "cloth face covering" to curb the transmission of coronavirus.
For the past months, CDC recommended face masks for those with COVID-19 symptoms or who are taking care of sick people. This new advisory now recommends that those who aren't feeling sick should still wear a mask, though compliance is voluntary.
The new policy emerged from recent studies. It appears that a significant number of individuals with coronavirus lack symptoms or were asymptomatic. Those who eventually develop symptoms can transmit the virus, which can spread while speaking, coughing, or sneezing when interacting at close vicinity despite the lack of exhibiting symptoms. Thus, wearing a face mask where social distancing is difficult to maintain, especially in areas with a significant community-based transmission, is advised.
The cities of New York and Los Angeles have also issued guidance that all residents wear face coverings in public, regardless of showing the symptom or not.
Reserve surgical masks or N-95 masks to health workers
The CDC advised against wearing surgical masks or N-95 respirators that health workers use. These critical supplies must be reserved for healthcare workers and medical responders. The scarcity of protective equipment has been distressing for health care workers who are now overwhelmed with patients. Many people fear that a national policy to wear masks could compromise the supply even more.
Instead, the CDC advised the use of "Cloth face coverings fashioned from household items or made at home from common materials can be used as an additional, voluntary public health measure."
Best to stay at home
It is important to note that a mask is not a virus-blocking solution that would allow someone to do normal social functions. It is essential to stay at home as much as possible until quarantine advisories are lifted. Wearing a mask is advised if you have to go outside to purchase supplies, but it is still best to maintain social distancing, continue hand washing, and disinfect your home.
What mask should be used?
A well-made mask that is snugly secured around the ears is best, according to the CDC. In the absence of such masks, any type of face-covering like bandana and scarf is better. CDC still warns that these are not considered proper protective gear and should only be used as a last resort. These measures are, however, essential to be sure that your nose and mouth are securely covered from all sides, so droplets are prevented from escaping.
One Million COVID-19 Cases
New York on Friday reported 562 fatalities, its highest number of deaths in a single day, bringing the total death toll to 3,000. After New York, New Jersey has the highest rate of COVID-19 cases.
As of this writing, there are 277,467 confirmed coronavirus cases in the U.S., with 7,402 deaths. So far, 80 percent of patients experience mild symptoms such as fever and pneumonia, requiring little or no medical attention.
Countries all over the world are racing against time to control COVID-19 cases as it hit 1,098,762 of confirmed cases and claimed 54,172 lives worldwide.