Using Cloth Face Masks or Facial Coverings
April 16, 2020 | Canada
Do they protect you?
- Wearing a non-medical cloth mask or face covering has not been proven to protect the person wearing it. However, wearing a non-medical mask may be helpful in protecting others around you.
- This is because face coverings are another way to cover your mouth and nose to prevent respiratory droplets from contaminating other people or surfaces. Wearing a mask may also stop you from touching your nose and mouth.
- Frequent and thorough hand washing, covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding touching your face, nose or mouth remain the best evidence-based ways to prevent the spread of respiratory illness.
What is the guidance from the Public Health Agency of Canada?
The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends the use of cloth masks for short periods of time when physical distancing is not possible in public settings (e.g., grocery shopping, in close settings such as public transit). At these times a non-medical mask is one way to protect those around you.
If you choose to wear a non-medical mask:
- Wash your hands before putting it on and after taking it off. Alcohol-based hands rub (ABHR) may be used in the absence of soap and water.
- Be aware that masks can become contaminated on the outside. Avoid moving or adjusting the mask.
- Assume the mask has been contaminated and take proper precautions when removing the mask.
- Cloth masks should be worn only a short time, as they can trap virus particles after they become damp, which may put the wearer at greater risk.
- Carry a bag with several clean masks so that damp and dirty masks can be changed as often as necessary.
- Carry an extra plastic bag that can be used to safely store used masks until they can be washed properly.
How to clean the used cloth masks:
- Wash cloth masks or face coverings after each use.
- It is critical that used masks be carefully handled to avoid spreading infection to self and others.
- Put the used masks directly into the washing machine or in a plastic bag that can be emptied directly into the washing machine, and then discard the plastic bag.
- Cloth masks can be laundered with other items using a hot cycle, and then dried thoroughly.
Discard cloth masks that:
- No longer cover the nose and mouth.
- Have stretched out or have damaged ties or straps.
- Cannot stay on the face.
- Have holes or tears in the fabric.
Source: Government of Canada and Alberta Health Services, as of April 10, 2020.
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