Let’s Talk About Masks
Separate research groups (including this report from Nature.com and this report from Annals of Internal Medicine) report that surgical face masks reduced the presence of influenza and coronavirus RNA in respiratory droplets and aerosols from infected individuals. This supports the CDC guidelines for the public.
The CDC has recommended that the general population begin wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (grocery stores, pharmacies, physician visits, etc.) to decrease the community-based transmission of COVID-19.
Since there is strong evidence that asymptomatic people can carry and transmit COVID-19, the CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings when out on essential activity trips EVEN if you do not have any COVID-19 symptoms.
According to CDC guidelines, cloth face coverings should:
- Fit snugly against the face
- Be secured with ties or ear loops
- Include multiple layers of fabric
- Allow for unrestricted breathing
- Be able to be washed/dried without damage or change to shape
For more guidelines on cloth face coverings—including how to make your own—visit the CDC’s website.
The Lung Docs encourage the use of cloth face coverings. In fact, we want you to share photos of your use of PPE (personal protective equipment) when out on essential trips on social media using the hashtag #ChattanoogaConquersCOVID. If you have any questions or concerns, please give us a call at 423-710-3864. You may request an appointment by phone or by using our easy online appointment request form.
