Masking/Face Coverings: When and Why to Wear a Mask
There are no masking or face covering requirements on campus or in the community at this time; however, wearing a well-fitting, high-quality mask may still be a good idea in certain situations, whether to protect yourself or others. These include:
- When you are ill with COVID-19 or any respiratory virus.
- When you have recently been exposed to COVID-19 and are visiting someone who is immunocompromised, elderly, or otherwise at high risk for severe disease.
- If you are at high risk for severe disease, and you are in a crowded indoor public setting.
- For protection against wildfire smoke or other contaminants.
Information on types of masks and where to buy them:
- CDC information on Respirators and Masks
- Respirators and masks can be purchased at local hardware stores, pharmacies, and online.
- Surgical masks are loose-fitting and disposable, while (K)N95 respirators are designed to fit closely to the face and form a seal around the nose and mouth. (K)N95 masks generally provide better protection than surgical masks, both for the SARS-CoV-2 virus and smoke particles.
- Wearing an air purifying particulate respirator or mask will filter particles, but it does not filter out harmful gases or vapors.
- Individuals whose positions require exposure to hazards should wear respirators that have been fitted through the EH&S department.
For more information regarding respiratory viruses and masks, see the CDC links:
See also COVID-19, Respiratory Illnesses, and Air Quality & Wildfire Smoke.