Everything you need to know about masks  

Wearing a mask is safe for most people. Despite an increase in concerns that masks can restrict breathing or cause reduced oxygen levels (hypoxia), there is no current research or evidence to support these claims. Studies have looked at other pandemics where mask-wearing was prevalent, such as the SARS outbreak in China in 2002, and have found no long-term negative effects of wearing masks.

Children under 2, individuals having trouble breathing, or anyone who is unconscious, or cannot remove the mask on their own, should not wear a mask. The CDC offers alternatives to consider for these special considerations to help reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19. At Edward-Elmhurst Health, we work with individuals who have special considerations on a case-by-case basis to assist with alternatives and maintain safety at all times.

Take regular breaks. Wearing masks for prolonged periods of time can be unpleasant or irritating, especially in warm, humid weather. We encourage taking short breaks when your situation allows you to do so safely. Remember to drink water during breaks to maintain hydration.

Mask removal and mask storage is important. Wearing and caring for your mask is an important part of daily life. We recommend daily washing of cloth masks and the following removal and storage guidelines for both surgical and cloth masks:

• To remove the mask with intent to re-use:

1. Wash hands.
2. Assume the front is contaminated and remove mask slowly and carefully by grasping ear loops or lower ties and then upper ties. Keep loops or ties from touching the interior of the mask.
3. After removing the mask, inspect for contamination or any distortions in shape or form. If soiled, torn or saturated, the mask should be discarded.
4. If the mask is NOT visibly soiled, torn, or saturated, carefully place on a clean paper towel or paper bag.
5. Wash hands.

• To re-apply used mask:

1. Wash hands.
2. Grasp mask at the ear loops or upper ties.
3. Place over face
   • For ear-loop style mask: Secure ear loops behind ears, secure mask.
   • For tie-back style mask: Secure upper ties first, behind the head. End by securing lower ties behind the head.
4. Wash hands.

Protecting skin can ease discomfort. Skin or lip irritation or dryness can occur with long-term mask-wearing. Use the following tips to avoid irritation:

• Ensure your face mask is dry before using it.
• Avoid makeup if possible as it can create moisture under the mask.
• Use a barrier cream like Aquaphor or Cerave to prevent dry skin under the mask.

The bottom line on wearing a mask. These basic infection practices are key to fighting the spread of COVID-19. Wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, washing hands thoroughly, covering coughs and sneezes, avoiding those who are sick, and regularly disinfecting surfaces are the most powerful steps we can take to stay healthy and protect ourselves and others from both symptomatic and asymptomatic spread. Even when or if a vaccine becomes available, it will be crucial to maintain these practices and not let our guard down as we wait for immunity to increase throughout our communities.

For updates on our planning and response efforts as we work to stop the spread of COVID-19, please check EEHealth.org/coronavirus.

The information in this article may change at any time due to the changing landscape of this pandemic. Read the latest on COVID-19.

Get more information about coronavirus from Healthy Driven Chicago.