‘Source control’ is the primary concern with any type of illness or virus that could potentially pass from one person to another.

The idea is to contain it, so that doesn’t happen by whatever means and the best means for those at risk.

In America’s current health environment, there have been many methods imposed to stop a virus that has made its way throughout the country; in fact, the world.

With something that is virtually a mystery, containing it can be challenging. Stopping it has yet to happen.

But with what is known, a simplistic barrier has the potential to assist in preventing ‘respiratory droplets’ passing openly into the exposed air to surrounding people when there is a sneeze, cough, speaking, shouting, or any other possible transmission.

At this point in time, the recommendations have come down to a simple cloth face mask that reduces sprays of droplets claimed to be a key component in spreading the virus.

These can only be effective for those who educate on the proper materials, the fit, how to wear them, and the washing requirements.

And they are particularly vital in spaces where social distancing from other people of more than 6 feet (1.83 m) is not possible.

The Fundamentals Of Cloth Face Masks

In a vast market throughout the United States are wholesale masks easily accessible to anyone who needs one. These are a critical component in the prevention of the further spread of illness throughout the country.

Other measures need to be employed for people who are not capable of using the ‘device’ or don’t have access to one.

These include maintaining safe distancing from other people by as much or more than 6 feet (1.83 m), hand washing regularly, and continuous disinfection of surfaces that you touch. People excluded from wearing these include:

– Small children of two years or younger.
– Any person with difficulty breathing.
– Any person deemed incapacitated, unconscious, or that would otherwise identify as incapable of removing the covering without help.

Wearing these are not always easy or impossible for some people, for which the CDC is aware. There are mental and physical conditions where this kind of covering may create a worsening of symptoms that create safety concerns. Some of those situations where alternatives need to be sought include:

Hearing Challenges: For those who are deaf or the people who interact with them, wearing a cloth over the mouth can impede their ability to read lips, creating a communication barrier.

Using a clear face shield is one alternative to consider. Other options may need to be employed if these are not available due to the severe need for the barrier.

Some options can include closed captioning, written communication, and decreasing background noise in an effort to communicate depending on the level of impairment to protect not only your health but also those around you.

Mental Health: It may be challenging to incorporate a mask into your routine if you suffer from specific challenges such as mental health disorders, intellectual or developmental disabilities, or other types of sensory conditions.

In these cases, health care providers should be consulted for alternatives or directives concerning masks.

Small Children: The children of a younger age group, including preschoolers or early elementary school, might have a tough time keeping the cloth where it belongs, especially for any length of time.

It is a judgment call for parents when kids will be exposed to the public and how close in proximity. Social distancing is crucial at least 6 feet (1.83 m). If that’s not possible, the mask will need to be worn, and children should be monitored while…
 
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