Mask Up, Mask Right

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 08:18:47 -0500

Wearing a mask is a critical step in reducing the spread of COVID-19. There are several new variants, or mutations, of the virus that may complicate our fight to end the pandemic. Mutations are common and will continue to happen as long as the virus spreads among us, so it is still important for us to take every precaution to protect ourselves and others.

A few concerns about the new strains are:

some new strains could have the ability to reinfect people who survived COVID-19

the variants could be more contagious (spread faster) than the strain most common in the U.S.

And if the vaccines will remain as effective against the new variants in slowing the spread of COVID-19 in the population

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) encourages wearing TWO masks for additional protection against the new strains of COVID-19.

Wear a cloth mask over a disposable mask (do notwear two disposable masks)

The masks should fit snugly on your mouth, cheeks, and chin with no openings/gaps

At least one mask should have a metal nose wire

Only wear one KN95 mask at a time.

If you already have difficulty breathing in a mask, before you double mask maybe try walking around your home with both to assess your comfort level.

Mask Hygiene

If you wear disposable masks, then throw them away after every use. Wash or sanitize your hands each and every time your mask is removed or adjusted.

For cloth/reusable masks

Store your clean and/or dry masks in a paper bag between uses

If your mask is dirty, then store it in a plastic bag until it is time to wash it

Wash your mask in the washing machine or by hand with warm water and laundry detergent

Place in the dryer or fully air dry before the next use

In the meantime, double mask, wash your hands, and social distance to keep yourself and others safe! Remember, do not share your mask with others.

If you have questions about the pandemic, visit these reputable resources:

Dear Pandemic: COVID-19

Retriever Ready: COVID-19 Response

Johns Hopkins University COVID-19 tracker

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Maryland State Health Department

If you have questions about UMBC’s strategy to slow the spread of COVID-19, please visit covid19.umbc.edu .