One of the many questions being asked during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is whether one should wear a mask when in public areas.
Two health organizations and the country’s top infectious disease expert have offered their opinions on that question:
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that if you are not sick, “you do not need to wear a face mask unless you are caring for someone who is sick.” However, if you are sick, “You should wear a face mask when you are around other people (sharing a room or vehicle) and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office.”
The World Health Organization says it is standing by its recommendation to only wear a mask if you are sick or caring for someone who is sick.
“Mask wearing by the general public is not among the WHO’s recommendations,” the organization said.
Dr. Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and the White House’s infectious disease expert said masks should not be used as a substitute for social distancing, but rather should be used as a supplement.
“Because of some recent information that the virus can actually be spread even when people just speak as opposed to coughing and sneezing, the better part of valor is that when you’re out and you can’t maintain that six-foot distance to wear some sort of facial covering,” he said.
Fauci added that the White House Task Force is actively discussing guidelines on masks.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
