Wash hands thoroughly with water and soap for at least 20 seconds or clean them using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer (only if hands are not visibly dirty) before wearing a mask and after touching or removing the mask.
Put the mask on and ensure that it fits snugly around the face and covers the nose, mouth, and chin completely at all times while wearing it.
Avoid touching the face and the mask. If you touch the mask, wash or sanitize your hands.
Do not fiddle with the mask. Do not share a mask with others.
Remove the mask from the tie straps behind the head or the elastic ear loops, without grabbing the front.
Discard single-use masks immediately upon removal or when it becomes damaged, moist (eg, contaminated with bodily fluids and secretions), or visibly dirty. Routinely wash reusable cloth masks with regular detergent and let them dry before wearing again.
Keep masks in a clean, dry place (eg, a clean plastic or paper bag).
Since moisture from breathing inside masks may affect their effectiveness, it should be cautioned against the use of a single mask for extended periods. It is recommended to change to a fresh mask when the mask being worn becomes damp.
Masks should not be worn by children under age 2 years, people who may have baseline breathing difficulties, and people who are unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to wear a mask correctly. Alternatively, these people should rely on keeping the respiratory etiquette along with all other personal and environmental hygienic measures.
Primary school-aged children should have adult supervision when wearing a mask.
Masks should not be seen as an alternative to physical distancing.
