When and how to wear face masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19

With CareNow® proudly serving patients with quality urgent care services to you and your family for over 30 years, your safety and well-being has always been our top priority.

While we’ve done our part to ensure social distancing, increased sanitation and make our clinics as safe to visit as possible, it’s still recommended that you wear a mask or face covering at all times outside the house, even when entering our facilities.

The safest way to seek care from our providers and still practice social distancing is through our new Virtual Visits.

When you or your family experiences minor illnesses and injuries, our providers can help diagnose and treat many such conditions through our new telehealth option.

Can wearing a mask prevent the spread of COVID-19?

Yes, face masks combined with other preventive measures, such as frequent hand-washing and social distancing, help slow the spread of the disease.

Why should I wear a mask even if I’m not showing symptoms of COVID-19?

According to the CDC, wearing cloth masks can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 by people who have the disease but don't realize it.

We now know from recent studies that a significant number of people with coronavirus lack symptoms (known as “asymptomatic”) and even those who eventually develop symptoms (“pre-symptomatic”) can transmit the virus to others before they begin showing symptoms. 

This means the virus can spread between people interacting in close proximity (within distance of speaking, coughing, or sneezing) even if those infected are not exhibiting symptoms. 

Am I legally required to wear a face mask?

CareNow® recommends you know and follow your local and state government guidelines

Public health ordinances vary greatly depending on where you live so be sure to check your local news for daily updates on what your community is requiring of you. 

Does everyone need to wear a face mask?

The following people should NOT wear a face mask, according to the CDC:

• Children under age 2.
• Anyone who has trouble breathing.
• Anyone who is unconscious, incapacitated or can’t remove a face mask without help.

What type of face mask is best?

The type of cloth face masks being recommended by the CDC are not personal protective equipment (PPE) such as surgical masks or N-95 respirators. These masks are to be reserved for healthcare workers and first responders.

The CDC has sewing and no-sew instructions for making cloth masks or face covers. The best part is that you can make them with items that you probably already have around your home. 

Or you can buy disposable face masks from various retailers.

The CDC recommends keeping these criteria in mind when wearing a mask or face cover:

• It should be snug but comfortable against the sides of the face.
• It needs to be secured with ties or ear loops.
• It should be made with multiple layers of material.
• It must allow you to breathe without restriction.
• Re-usable masks should be able to withstand machine washing and drying and not get damaged or change shape.

What’s the safest way to put on and remove a face mask?

Here are step by step directions for the best way to safely apply and wear a face mask (reusable and one-time use):

• Before putting on a mask, clean hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
• Cover mouth and nose with mask and make sure there are no gaps between your face and the mask.
• Avoid touching the mask while using it; if you do, clean your hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
• To remove the mask: remove it from behind and clean your hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.

How to keep cloth masks and face covers clean

If you’re wondering how often your mask or face covers need to be washed, the answer is simple. They should be laundered after every use.

If you can’t wash them right away, store them in a plastic bag or laundry basket. Hand wash or wash on a gentle cycle using hot, soapy water. Then, dry them on high heat. If you notice damage to your re-usable face mask, or if the mask is heavily soiled, it’s best to throw it away.

When it comes to protecting yourself from COVID-19, you’re the first line of defense. Take the proper precautions to stay safe whether you’re out picking up essential supplies or receiving healthcare services.

CareNow® is here to help

CareNow® is here when you need us most for minor illnesses and injuries. From Virtual Visits to Web Check-In for a better in-clinic visit experience, you can count on us to deliver quality care to you and your family.