Preventing the Spread of COVID-19

We all are aware of the necessity of stopping the spread of the COVID-19 virus. The CDC reports that “COVID-19 spreads mainly from person to person through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or raises their voice (e.g., while shouting, chanting, or singing). These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.” We can protect ourselves from others who may have the disease (often the individual can be contagious a few days before the symptoms show up) and we can protect others from ourselves if we unknowingly are carrying it. There are two methods by which to protect ourselves: by social distancing, standing at least six feet apart when with non-family members, and by the wearing of masks or other cloth face coverings.

Face masks can be purchased or created by sewing a fabric mask using a pattern. A pattern is available from this New York Times article, and from this Good Housekeeping article.

The Johns Hopkins Medicine website has information on caring for your mask, including how often to wash it, how to wear it, and more. The Mayo Clinic website also has information about the different types of masks, including their efficacy in stopping the spread.