Wearing a mask

Patients should bring and wear a mask for their appointment as well as observe social distancing in our lobby and waiting areas.

Why wearing a mask helps prevent the spread of COVID-19

COVID-19 is airborne and spread by respiratory droplets which enter through the nose and mouth. Wearing a mask will help prevent the spread of these droplets into the air. It is possible for someone to spread the virus even if they do not have symptoms.

Below are tips on how to wear a mask:

• For the mask to be the most effective, it must fit as snugly as possible to the face, covering the chin, mouth and nose up to the nose bridge. The mask should not be below the nose or worn at the tip of their nose.
• The mask should fit tightly against the face. This means there should be no gaps or openings along the sides of the mask.
• If wearing a bandana, the loose end at the bottom should be tucked inside the individual’s shirt.
• For individuals who wear glasses, masks can cause lenses to fog up. It is recommended to adjust the position of the mask near their glasses. By pressing the mask tightly to the skin under the eyes (and around/under the frames of the glasses) it will help redirect the flow of exhaled air under the chin and out the lower part of the mask.

It is important to keep the mask on while around people and where it is not possible to social distance (being 6 feet or more away). Wearing a mask can help stop your germs from infecting others. Research has shown that wearing masks reduces the risk of infection, especially when combined with other prevention efforts such as washing your hands frequently and staying 6 feet away from others.