Mussman Emphasizes Importance of Wearing Face Coverings in Public

SCHAUMBURG, Ill. – To highlight important information on ways that residents can help limit their exposure to and the spread of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), state Rep. Michelle Mussman, D-Schaumburg, is urging residents to wear face masks or other coverings when in public places.

“Illinois is at a critical point in our fight against COVID-19, so it is important that we each continue doing our part to help save lives by staying home as much as possible and only venturing out for essential reasons, like getting groceries,” said Mussman. “If you do need to go to the grocery store or another public place where it is difficult to maintain social distancing, it is important to wear a cloth mask that covers your mouth and nose to help prevent the spread of the disease.”

Mussman is urging residents to abide by the recent update to Illinois’ stay at home order to require residents over the age of two and who are medically able to do so to wear face coverings when in public. Mussman is also encouraging locals to follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for using such face coverings to ensure proper use. According to the CDC, cloth face coverings should:
• Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
• Be secured with ties or ear loops
• Include multiple layers of fabric
• Allow for breathing without restriction
• Be able to be machine washed and dried without damage or change to shape

Illinois’ face covering requirement goes into effect on Friday, May 1. Residents can find out more information on updates to the stay at home order at coronavirus.illinois.gov. For more information on the importance of wearing face masks in public to prevent the spread of COVID-19, or for instructions on how to make your own, residents are encouraged to visit the CDC’s website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html

“Surgical masks and other medical equipment should be reserved exclusively for our first responders and medical workers fighting COVID-19 on the front lines, but making your own mask is quick and easy,” continued Mussman. “Starting on May 1 it will be required to wear a face covering in public places, so I encourage residents to take the next week to learn more about making their own mask.”