The Health Department is recommending that all Vermonters wear cloth face coverings when outside of their homes to help slow the spread of Covid-19. This advice is based on new data that the virus can spread before a person has any symptoms.
A face covering is one more precaution people can take, although it is not a substitute for physical distancing and other prevention measures, the department wrote in its guidelines. People still need to stay at least 6 feet away from people, even when wearing a face covering.
Face masks should fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face, be secured with ties or ear loops, include multiple layers of fabric, allow for breathing without restriction and be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape.
According to the guidelines, people should wear face masks when they are shopping for essential items, if they work at an essential business that is still open, if they work in the home care industry or if they live in a house with a person who is sick.
— Sarah Asch
