The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit is letting the public know of some facts to keep in mind since the Government of Canada has recommended using face coverings when physical distancing is difficult to maintain.
The Health Unit says outside of air travel, wearing a face covering (a non-medical mask made of cloth that covers the nose and mouth) is a personal choice. The covering should fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face and be secured with ties or ear loops. The Health Unit says some things to consider include:
The covers protect others as it’s a way to cover your cough or sneeze. Wearing one does not replace the need to continue with other public health measures, like staying home as much as possible, avoiding close contact with others outside of your household and thorough and frequent hand hygiene practices. The Health Unit also says face coverings should not be placed on or used by children under the age of two, anyone who has trouble breathing, or anyone who is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
To make your own face covering visit the Government of Canada’s website here.
The Health Unit says wear cloth face coverings only and to keep the medical masks for health care workers.
To protect yourself when wearing a face covering, wash your hands before putting it on and taking it off, avoid touching your face covering while using it, use your own face covering and do not share. The Health Unit also says to clean surfaces that your dirty face covering touches and change it as soon as it gets damp or soiled. Cloth face coverings can be done in the laundry with other items using a hot cycle, and then dried thoroughly.
The Health Unit has staff answering COVID-19 related questions and concerns for the public from 8:30am to 4:30pm every day at 1-800-660-5853 extension 2499.