According to CDC recent studies show that a significant portion of individuals with coronavirus lack symptoms (“asymptomatic”) and that even those who eventually develop symptoms (“pre-symptomatic”) can transmit the virus to others before showing symptoms. This means that the virus can spread between people interacting in close proximity—for example, speaking, coughing, or sneezing—even if those people are not exhibiting symptoms. In light of this new evidence, CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain such as grocery stores and pharmacies, especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.
DIY Mask Tips
With the shortage of masks that we are now experiencing it’s very common to want to create your own mask. If that’s what you’re planning on doing it is important to choose the shape of the mask and your supplies wisely. Start by finding a 100% cotton fabric that is tightly woven, this will be your front and back of the mask. If you want to add an additional layer of protection that you can sew in between those layers, look for non-woven, breathable fabric, such as Polypropylene (OLY-Fun Fabric). This fabric makes a great additional layer of protection to your mask.
If you’re looking for elastic and can’t find it anymore, you can substitute that with hair ties, or even thin headband, cut into two pieces. To make your mask more efficient find a pattern that has an “inside packet”, which can be used for an additional layer of disposable filter (tissue, non-woven fabric, Pellon, etc). Additionally, if you want your mask to be fitted towards your face, you can sew-in twist tie into the top and bottom, inside of the mask.
Although DIY masks are not as protective as surgical masks when made with proper materials and tools they can be very helpful and effective.
We hope you find these tips helpful!