A face covering can be any material but is typically made of cloth that covers the nose and mouth. It can be secured to your head with ties or straps, or simply wrapped around the lower face. In addition to cloth, face coverings can also be made with cotton, silk, or linen. A cloth face covering may be factory made or sewn by hand, or can be improvised from household items such as scarfs, t-shirts, sweatshirts, or towels. Remember to wash hands and coverings before donning them.
Please avoid purchasing surgical masks and N95 respirators as there is urgent need for these items for frontline medical professionals and first responders.
There is evidence to suggest that the use of cloth face coverings by the public could help reduce COVID-19 transmission. The primary role is to reduce the release of infectious particles into the air when someone speaks, coughs, or sneezes. Face coverings are not a substitute for physical distancing, washing hands, or staying home when sick.
Per the latest information from local, state, and federal public health officials, the risk of contracting the virus remains low. There are steps individuals can take to help minimize and prevent the spread of COVID-19. These include:
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Avoid touching face (eyes, nose, and mouth) with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Stay home when you are sick.
Wear face coverings in public.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw it in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Practice social distancing; avoid groups; maintain at least 6 feet from others.Anyone who was recently in an area that is currently experiencing a high infection rate of COVID-19 and feels sick with a fever, cough, or has difficulty breathing within 14 days after leaving should:
Seek medical care right away. Before going to a doctor’s office or emergency room, patients should call ahead and tell them about their recent travel and symptoms.
Self-quarantine and avoid contact with others.
Not travel while sick.
Cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or their sleeve (not their hands) whencoughing or sneezing.
Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to avoid spreading thevirus to others. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available. For more information regarding the COVID-19, please visit any of the following websites:
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health – publichealth.lacounty.gov California Department of Public Health – cdph.gov Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – cdc.gov
For more information regarding the City of Arcadia’s response to COVID-19 along with future updates regarding City services, text ARCADIACOV19 to 888777 for SMS updates or please visit us at ArcadiaCA.gov/covid19 or contact us at (626) 574-5401.
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