The Cooper County Public Health Center has received calls regarding homemade fabric masks.
A news release says currently, the center is unaware of any healthcare providers in the area that can make use of the masks, but urges you to check with local community agencies or churches for citizens in need.
The center says homemade fabric masks are good for individuals who are concerned about spraying body fluids from their mouth while they are ill. The fabric masks do not provide the protection of an N-95 mask.
For healthcare personal (HCP) use of homemade masks:
In settings where facemasks are not available, HCP might use homemade masks (e.g., bandana, scarf) for care of patients with COVID-19 as a last resort. However, homemade masks are not considered PPE, since their capability to protect HCP is unknown. Caution should be exercised when considering this option. Homemade masks should ideally be used in combination with a face shield that covers the entire front (that extends to the chin or below) and sides of the face.
A couple of links to the CDC’s website are included here for persons who would like more information.
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/ppe-strategy/face-masks.html
Pattern link-
https://www.deaconess.com/How-to-make-a-Face-Mask