Made from using household fabric or material to cover the face to prevent infection from the airborne transmission of a virus. A face cloth covering must be distinguished from a face mask that is professionally manufactured for healthcare workers in hospitals and other health settings.

Face coverings can be made at home using household fabric, such as a T-shirt or bedding. Most importantly, public health officials advise that a cloth face covering MUST cover both the mouth and nose while allowing a person to breathe comfortably.

Unlike the face mask, a cloth face covering is not considered Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), as it is not known to what extent they are capable of protecting COVID-19. It is recommended, therefore, that homemade cloth face coverings are used in combination with a face shield, which provides an extra barrier.

Severe shortages of PPE during the COVID-19 pandemic lead to reserving the most effective face masks for healthcare workers and others on the frontline. To meet public demand for protection, a cottage industry emerged around making cloth face coverings, some costing thousands of dollars, and even becoming fun, stylish, fashion statements.

Categories:

Prevention Transmission

Cross-reference:

Face masksPPE (Personal Protective Equipment)Face shield/visorCOVID-19Pandemic