Wearing a well-fitted mask in indoor public settings can help maximize protection from circulating variants and can help prevent spreading viruses to others. COVID-19 is still circulating, causing illness, hospitalizations, and deaths.
Even if you are up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends wearing a mask in some situations.
Wearing a mask is recommended:
- if you have been exposed to, or tested positive for COVID-19
- indoors in public depending on the COVID-19 level in your community
- if you or someone close to you has a weakened immune system or is at high risk for severe illness
- when you are sick, or caring for someone who is sick
- if you have an underlying health condition, are pregnant, or are age 65 years or older
- if you wish to, based on personal preference and personal risk
- where required by laws, rules, regulations, or local guidance
Layered prevention strategies — like staying up to date on vaccines and wearing masks — can help prevent severe illness and reduce strain on the healthcare system. It is also important to continue to wash hands frequently, cover coughs/sneezes, and stay home when sick.
If you wear a mask, be sure to follow these dos and don’ts:
| Dos | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Do wear a mask that fits snuggly from nose to chin | Don’t wear your mask below the nose, around your neck, or on your forehead |
| Do wear a face mask in public around others who do not live in your household | Don’t stop social distancing (stay at least 6 feet apart) |
| Do stay at least 6 feet apart from others in public | Don’t take your mask off in public if you are within 6 feet of others |
| Do wash your hands frequently | Don’t touch your mask more than necessary |
| Do wear a mask consistently and correctly to stop respiratory droplets from getting inside or escaping from your mask | Don’t use a single-layer cloth mask or other loose-fitting mask |
Reviewed March 2023
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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