Massachusetts Issues Cloth Mask Advisory For All Residents

BOSTON – A new Massachusetts Department of Public Health advisory, consistent with CDC guidance, recommends that all residents wear a mask or face covering in public when social distancing is not possible.

In addition, the Executive Branch issued similar guidance to state employees recommending when masks or face coverings should be utilized while working.

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The Baker-Polito Administration today issued guidance to residents and Executive Branch employees recommending the use of a face covering or cloth mask when in situations where maintaining proper social distancing measures are not possible to prevent the spread of COVID-19, such as in a grocery store.

A face covering may include anything that covers your nose and mouth, including a mask, scarf or bandana.

Health care masks, such as N95 masks, should not be used and should be preserved for health care workers and first responders.

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Cloth masks should not be worn by young children under the age of two, persons with difficulty breathing, or those who are unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance. Instructions on how to make a cloth mask are available from the CDC here.