The Medical College of Wisconsin is now recommending that everyone should wear a cloth face covering in public to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
- Coronavirus in Wisconsin: Live Updates From Across the State
- We're Open: These Restaurants Are Still Offering Carryout And Delivery
- FULL COVERAGE: Coronavirus News And Resources You Can Use
The college says they support the new guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommending that all individuals wear cloth face coverings in public, over the mouth and nose.
Recommended face coverings include scarves, bandanas and cloth masks.
"Our goal is to never reach a time when there is a shortage of hospital resources, including ICU beds and breathing machines, for patients in need," said John R. Raymond, Sr., MD, president and CEO of MCW. "Every individual action counts. People wearing a cloth face covering in public places like the grocery store or pharmacy will help to flatten the curve, by reducing the spread of COVID-19."
They also urge people to continue social distancing and remain at least six feet away from others.
The Medical College of Wisconsin also recommends the following actions:
- Clean hands frequently (soap and water for at least 20 seconds or hand sanitizer);
- Wear a cloth face covering in public over mouth and nose (this can be a scarf, bandana or a cloth mask). Even with the cloth face covering on, continue to use social distancing, remaining six feet away from others;
- Before and after putting on cloth face covering, wash hands with soap and water;
- Do not touch the cloth face covering while it is being worn;
- Do not touch face, eyes, nose, or mouth, even when wearing a cloth face covering;
- Save N95 masks, surgical grade masks and face shields for healthcare workers.
The college says everyone should comply with Wisconsin's "Safer at Home" orders. They say the area still has several more weeks before reaching the projected peak of positive cases of COVID-19.