HAVRE, Mont. (NMB) – Hill County Health Department discussed the importance of the CDC face mask guidelines with New Media Broadcasters Monday, April 6 and are urging the public to only use cloth masks at this time.
Public Health Director Kim Larson said they are concerned that people will try to buy medical grade masks instead of cloth masks, which will then deplete needed hospital supplies for essential personnel.
“The one concern that we at the health department have is that people are going to run out and try to buy medical grade masks and we really need to keep those for our healthcare professionals. So, just make sure that it is a cloth mask.”
Larson said the cloth masks will add another layer of protection for the wearer but will not completely protect you from the virus as droplets can still enter through your eyes if you are not practicing the six feet rule.
“The issue is, is if you are still within, you know, a foot of somebody, you have your cloth mask on that covers your mouth and your nose, they cough on you, yeah you won’t breathe it in but a droplet could land in your eye and you could be exposed that way.”
Larson stated the only sure way to protect yourself from COVID-19 is to wear the mask while practicing safe social distancing.
For more information you can call the the Hill County Health Department at 400-2415 or visit cdc.gov.
