The year 2020 has been a very difficult year for everyone as COVID-19 continues to haunt the world. Many people are growing weary of the pandemic and are starting to become defiant when it comes to recommended safety guidelines. The act of wearing a mask is one of the single most important precautions people can take to keep the community safe.

The CDC has set guidelines for the purpose of preventing the spread of COVID-19 and helping everyone stay safe with daily routines. The following guidelines are from the CDC’s website:

• People age 2 and older should wear masks in public settings and when around people who don’t live in their household.​
• Masks offer some protection to you and are also meant to protect those around you, in case you are unknowingly infected with the virus that causes COVID-19.
• A mask is NOT a substitute for social distancing. Masks should still be worn in addition to staying at least 6 feet apart.
• Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol after touching or removing your mask.
• Masks may not be necessary when you are outside by yourself away from others, or with other people who live in your household. However, some localities may have mask mandates while out in public and these mandates should always be followed.

All these regulations support the importance of wearing a mask to prevent your respiratory droplets, which can carry COVID-19, from reaching others and spreading the virus. This is especially important if people are unable to remain six feet away from each other. Many stores and facilities will not allow people to enter without wearing a mask for this reason.

For the safety of everyone, wear masks, wash hands with soap and water and stay six feet apart. This will aid in preventing COVID-19 from spreading. Stay safe!