COVID-19 and Vaccine Information
Masks are still required in healthcare settings per CDC and state health department guidelines.
November 24, 2020 | Wellness | Safety | Healthy You
Are you overwhelmed by the choices for face masks? Here are some things to help make things more clear.
Masks are an important part of how we reduce the spread of COVID-19. With so many types of masks, it can be confusing to know which ones are best.
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about mask use, from PeaceHealth's infection prevention department.
According to multiple studies, yes, masks with two or more layers have been shown to help reduce the spread of COVID-19, by preventing respiratory droplets from traveling into the air. COVID-19 is believed to spread mostly through these droplets. Masks are especially effective when used along with other measures such as social distancing and rigorous hygiene practices.
Here are the primary types of masks or face coverings:
It depends. If you are healthy and don't have underlying conditions, you can wear a mask to reduce others' exposure to germs you might breathe out. If you care for someone who has or who might have COVID-19, you will want to wear a mask that offers greater protection. See the graphic below for more details at a glance.
There are a few things to keep in mind:
Yes, masks are required for all visitors in all facilities. We strongly encourage visitors to bring their own mask. If you do not have one, PeaceHealth will provide a disposable mask upon entry to the facility.
Please be aware, masks with valves, neck gators and bandanas are not allowed for visitors because studies have shown these types of coverings are ineffective in preventing the spread of respiratory droplets.
Nurses, doctors and others may need to wear masks that offer stronger protection, depending on what they're doing. This is especially true if the patient either has or might have COVID-19.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has additional information about how to carefully remove a mask, make a mask and wash a mask.
The Washington Department of Health has additional information about masks, including masking myths and facts.