COVID-19: CDC Urges Use of Cloth Face Coverings in More Crowded Areas

Published on April 05, 2020

Supermarket, Pharmacy, Food Take-Out Settings are Some Examples

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Morris County residents are now urged by the CDC to wear face masks when going outside, particularly in areas where it may be a bit difficult to practice full social distancing, such as supermarkets, pharmacies, mass transit, walking trails, and other settings.(PNG, 5KB)

According to the CDC, recent studies show that a significant portion of individuals with coronavirus lack symptoms and even those who eventually develop symptoms can transmit the virus to others before showing symptoms.

This means that the virus can spread between people interacting in close proximity€”for example, speaking, coughing, or sneezing€”even if those people are not exhibiting symptoms.

In light of this new evidence, CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain, especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.

(JPG, 10KB) Surgeon General showing protective face covering

The cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders, as recommended by current CDC guidance.