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Although the spread of the novel coronavirus has begun to slow down, and many states are either open or gradually reopening in phases, you don't want to put your guard down just yet. The potential risk of contracting the coronavirus hasn't gone away, and the CDC is still recommending that people wear cloth face masks and practice safe social distancing. In fact, most businesses and public places require you to wear a mask for entry or service.
With summer officially here, people have gone from searching for the most heavy-duty masks to ones that are easier to wear in warm weather. So, to help you safely enjoy the summer months rather than staying inside every day, we rounded up 9 lightweight and breathable face mask options.
It's worth noting that none of the masks included are medical-grade, and the manufacturers, whether they be small sellers on Etsy or well-known brands, cannot make medical claims. However, the CDC has created a list of recommended guidelines for people interested in creating masks at home for personal use or for selling online.
Why is it important to wear a face mask?Wearing a cloth face mask may not prevent you from contracting the coronavirus or any other virus, but it can decrease the likelihood of spreading germs.
The CDC's guidelines say that "cloth face coverings may prevent the person wearing the mask from spreading respiratory droplets when talking, sneezing, or coughing. If everyone wears a cloth face covering when out in public, such as going to the grocery store, the risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2 can be reduced for the community."
According to Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, somewhere between 25% and 50% of people infected with the new coronavirus may be asymptomatic or presymptomatic.
Whether you're asymptomatic, pre-symptomatic, or showing mild symptoms that could be brushed off as a common cold, there's still a possibility you've contracted the new coronavirus and can unknowingly spread it to others. For this reason, the CDC recommends that everyone, not just those who show symptoms, wear a face mask outside the home.
In other words, even if you are comfortable being in public without wearing a mask and you're willing to assume the risk, it has become common courtesy to wear a mask for the people around you.
Note that cloth face masks are not medical grade and that additions like filters, unless they are carbon or HEPA, have not been proven to be any safer or more effective.
The CDC recommends that face masks have the following features:It should also be noted that there are some people who should not wear masks. According to the CDC, this includes "children under age 2, or anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance."
More articles about where to buy face masks:Check out 9 lightweight and breathable face masks to wear this summer: