IMPORTANT: In the state of New York, you are required to wear a face mask when in public.
The CDC has provided a corona protection guide from all their findings. However, coronavirus or COVID-19 is a newly discovered virus. Experts constantly learn more and more about it. At the moment, there is no vaccine. Taking proper steps to protect yourself and others can lower the spread significantly.
Please note that people who are at higher risk for COVID-19 include the following groups:
- 65+ year olds
- nursing home or LTC-facility communities
- people with chronic lung disease or moderate to severe asthma
- people with serious heart conditions
- those who are immunocompromised (cancer treatment, smoking, bone marrow or organ transplantation, immune deficiencies, poorly controlled HIV/AIDS, and prolonged use of corticosteroids and other immune weakening medications are some of the things that cause one to be immunocompromised)
- people with severe obesity (BMI of 40+)
- people with chronic kidney disease undergoing dialysis, liver disease, or diabetes
Other people who are at risk are pregnant people and people experiencing homelessness.
Face Masks and Coverings FAQs
What is a face covering?
A face covering is any well-secured paper or cloth (like a bandana or scarf) that covers your nose and mouth.
Who must wear a face covering?
All New Yorkers are required to wear face masks when out in public. You also need to wear face masks if you are in a living facility with shared kitchens, bathrooms, or other common spaces.
People who are sick must wear face masks when at home with others and if they are seeking medical care outside or important supplies of the home.
Should cloth face coverings be washed or cleaned regularly? How regularly?
Yes. They should be washed often depending on the frequency of use.
How does one safely sterilize/clean a cloth face covering?
A washing machine will properly wash a face covering or face mask.
How does one safely remove a used cloth face covering?
You should be careful not to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth when removing your face coverings. You must wash your hands immediately after removing. (For a full list of FAQs on face masks, visit the NYC Health’s press release on face coverings.)
How to Wear Cloth Face Masks
Proper cloth face masks and face coverings should have all the following qualities.
- fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
- are secured with ties or ear loops
- include multiple layers of fabric
- allow for breathing without restriction
- are able to be laundered and machine-dried without damage or change to shape
