With coronavirus on the rise in Ohio, what can you do to avoid becoming infected? Along with hand washing and social distancing, wearing a cloth face covering while out in public will help decrease the spread of the coronavirus.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public, especially in places where it’s hard to maintain at least six (6) feet of distance between yourself and another person. Cloth face masks are being recommended because we now know individuals with COVID-19 could have mild or no symptoms while still spreading the virus to others.

Wearing a cloth mask does not replace the need for physical distancing just like airbags do not replace seat belts!

Face coverings can be masks, scarves, bandanas or disposable paper like mask. Cloth covering should be washed frequently. The CDC does not recommend the use of N-95 respirators for the general public. The N-95 respirators should be reserved for healthcare workers and first responders.

There are many websites including cdc.gov that has instruction on how to make your own cloth mask sewn or non-sewn.

Why should I wear a cloth mask?

A cloth mask can help individuals prevent spreading germs that may be expelled when talking, singing, coughing or sneezing. Some people with COVID-19 have mild to no symptoms, and may be spreading the virus unknowingly. Cloth masks could help cut down how far the virus spreads. Cloth masks can prevent you from touching your face, and can be a visual reminder to practice social distancing.

Face coverings are not recommended for children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, and anyone who is unconscious, incapacitated or can’t remove a face mask without help.

The better job we do with prevention, the healthier our Clinton County community will be.

For more information on COVID-19 go to coronavirus.ohio.gov or cdc.gov . For the latest Clinton County information and resources, please visit covidcc.com. Follow the Clinton County Health District on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Also please note the Clinton County Health District is now providing immunizations by appointment only. If you or your child need immunized, please call 937-382-3829 to make an appointment.

Pam Daniel, MSN, RN is the health educator with the Clinton County Health District.