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Ask the Mask

Pregunte la máscaras a el cubre boca.
En español.

The spread of COVID-19 can be reduced when cloth face coverings are used along with other preventive measures, including social distancing, frequent handwashing, and cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.

  • Masks protect your family and friends, because people can spread COVID-19 before they know they are infected.
  • Masks help slow the spread, and can save hundreds of lives each day.
  • Masks protect employees and customers, and help businesses stay open.

You may have more questions about face coverings, and we have answers. Have a question not listed? Drop it in the comment section!

Tips for Kids

How to Wash your Mask

Why Should I Wear a Mask?

Physically Distancing is Important

What about CO2?

Masks Seem Complicated

Kids Can Save the Day, Too!

Every child deserves to feel like a superhero. Keep your children and your family safe by teaching them mask tips and tricks.

NOTE: Cloth face coverings should not be put on babies and children under the age of 2 because of the danger of suffocation.

  • Explain simply: Wearing a mask prevents germs from spreading, just like coughing in your elbow.
  • Make it fun: Kids can practice on their toys, dolls, or stuffed animals. Choose a pattern that your child likes - superheroes, animals, or a favorite color.
  • Teach them to wear it properly: Wash hands before putting on a face covering. Help them make sure it goes over the nose and mouth and is secure under their chin. Don’t put it around the neck or on the forehead. Handle only by the ear loops or ties.
  • Be a role model: Parents can lead by example by wearing masks too. A thumbs up and positive reinforcement can help kids keep up the good work.
  • Cloth face coverings help young athletes protect their teammates and themselves. They also help protect the sports season.

How to make masks more comfortable for kids

Helping kids get used to seeing and wearing masks

Sesame Street in Communities. Health Emergencies. 

Important mindfulness and life lessons for kids

How Often Do I Need to Clean My Mask?

It's really important to keep your mask clean. Cloth face coverings should be washed after each use.

  • Fabric face coverings can be washed in your regular laundry using hot water, or hand wash using hot, soapy water. After laundering, tumble dry on a high setting or lay flat (f possible, place in direct sunlight) and allow to completely dry.
  • Disposable masks cannot be laundered and should be thrown away when visibly soiled or damaged.

Others Aren't Wearing Masks. Should I?

It's kind. It's respectful. You'll be safe while showing love and concern for your community and family. If you see people not wearing face coverings:

  • If you feel unsafe, remove yourself from the situation.
  • Some people can't wear a face covering due to a health condition, age or ability.
  • You can only control your own actions and by wearing a face covering, you are making a difference.

Top Ten Reasons to Wear a Mask

If I Wear a Cloth Mask, Am I Safe?

Cloth face coverings can help stop the spread of COVID-19; but don't replace washing your hands for twenty seconds, or the need to keep a safe space between you and others who are not from your household.

  • Before going out, know and follow the guidance from local public health authorities where you live.
  • Stay at least 6 feet away from others who are not from your household while shopping, on public transit, and while waiting in lines. 
  • Avoid gathering in groups where it may be difficult to stay at least 6 feet away from others who are not from your household. If you are in a crowded space, try to keep 6 feet of space between yourself and others at all times, and wear a cloth face covering.

Do Face Masks Lead to CO2 Poisoning?

No. Perfectly safe for healthy people, face coverings help stop the spread and are not preventing people from getting enough oxygen.

Fact check: Wearing a face mask will not cause hypoxia, hypoxemia or hypercapnia

Debunking mask misconceptions and myths

Do Masks Have To Be Complicated?

Absolutely not. When worn properly, it will keep you and others safe.

A few pro-tips from those who wear masks for extended periods of time

How to Make a Breathable Face Mask out of a T-shirt

 

This campaign is supported by the Nevada State Division of Public and Behavioral Health through Grant Number 1 NH23IP922609-01-00 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Contents are solely the responsibility of Immunize Nevada and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Division nor the CDC.