Experts agree that wearing face masks can protect people’s health and slow the spread of COVID-19. That’s because the novel coronavirus can be transmitted through respiratory droplets that get into the air from sneezing, coughing or even speaking. A mask acts as a barrier, stopping those droplets before they reach another person^[1].

But a mask is only effective if it’s worn correctly. Here are the do’s and don'ts of wearing a face mask.

When you wear a mask, you’re making an effort to protect the health of others in your community, and you may also be keeping yourself and the people you love safe from COVID-19. Wearing a mask shows that you care.

To stock up on masks for everyone in your family, watch this video^[2]of Surgeon General Jerome Adams, M.D., who talks about how you can make your own mask using common household items.

[1] All of the above from “Considerations for Wearing Masks,” in section “Evidence for Effectiveness of Masks,” CDC

[2] This video is being promoted by the CDC page “How to Wear Masks” under “mo