If you live anywhere in the state of Nevada, you’ll know that there is currently a mandate for face masks or cloth face coverings to be worn whenever you are out of your home and around people who don’t live with you. This is to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the coronavirus that has caused a worldwide pandemic. Wearing a cloth face covering is important because it can help prevent the transmission of the COVID-19 coronavirus, as well as other viruses such as the flu. As we are quickly approaching the 2020 Fall/Winter Flu season, it is doubly important to help prevent the spread of both in an effort to help our healthcare system from becoming overwhelmed.
Why Do We Have to Wear Masks?
Wearing a mask is very important for all communities to help stop the spread of COVID-19. If you are unable to social distance or are around others who are not a member of your household, you should wear a mask. It can help save lives, especially the lives of those in our community who are vulnerable to COVID-19’s severe symptoms. Older adults and people with medical conditions such as Type 2 diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), Sickle cell disease, obesity, or heart conditions such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, or cardiomyopathies are at an increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19. In addition to these underlying medical conditions, the CDC has listed other conditions that might increase the risk of severe illness. Children with certain medical conditions are also at a higher risk of developing severe symptoms.
Even if you are feeling well, you could be asymptomatic. People who are asymptomatic can spread COVID-19 to others who may be vulnerable or may live with people who are vulnerable to severe illness. Wearing a mask or cloth face covering can save lives.
When Should I Wear a Face Mask?
The CDC recommends people wear cloth face coverings when out in public and around those who don’t live with you. While quarantining is the safest option to prevent the transmission of COVID-19, many of us have to interface with the public daily. Wearing a face covering helps prevent the spread of COVID-19 if you have it, even if you don’t have symptoms. When others wear masks, they also prevent the spread too. When everyone wears masks, it reduces COVID-19 in the community, allowing us all to work together towards ending the pandemic.
What if I Can’t Wear a Mask?
Please see the CDC’s section on Feasibility and Adaptations to wearing cloth face coverings for ways to protect yourself and others.
How to #MaskUp Nevada
Here are some general guidelines on how to use a face mask.
Intermountain Health wants you to stay safe, stay healthy, and #MaskUpNV for a southern Nevada that is COVID-19 free.
