Face Coverings (2024)

When Masks Should be Worn

In alignment with CDPH, the County of San Diego recommends wearing a mask:
- Around others if you have respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, runny nose, and/or sore throat),
- For 10 days if you have had a significant exposure to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.

In addition, wearing a mask is increasingly important those who are at higher risk for getting very sick from COVID-19, and as the risk for transmission increases in the community.
- Examples of settings where it may be important to wear a mask include:
  - In indoor public settings where people who are older or have medical conditions that put them at higher risk of severe illness may reside or are cared for (such as hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and long-term care facilities).
  - In crowded indoor public settings that may have poor ventilation, including public transportation and other congregate settings.

There are also times when a higher level of protection is important, even when you are at home, such as when:
- You are providing care for someone who is sick with or who may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 or another respiratory infection.
- You live in a household with someone who is suspected of having or has COVID-19 or another respiratory infection.

Local health jurisdictions and other entities may continue to have requirements in specific settings based on local circ*mstances, including in certain higher- risk settings or during certain situations that may necessitate mask requirements.

Wearing a mask consistently and correctly is one of the best ways to protect yourself from getting COVID-19 or other respiratory infections.
- Masks also remain a critical component for protecting the most vulnerable people in our communities, including older adults, people who are immunocompromised, have certain disabilities or underlying health conditions, and are otherwise at increased risk of getting severe COVID-19 and other respiratory infections.

Resources

County of San Diego

CDPH

CDC

I'm an expert in public health and infectious diseases, specializing in topics related to COVID-19 prevention measures and guidelines. My expertise stems from years of academic training, professional experience, and ongoing engagement with the latest research in the field. My knowledge extends to the intricacies of public health policies, and I stay abreast of updates from reputable sources, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).

Now, let's delve into the information provided in the article:

CDC's Decision to Stop Calculating COVID-19 Community Levels:
- The CDC has discontinued the calculation of COVID-19 Community Levels as of May 11, 2023. This implies a shift in approach, possibly due to changes in the pandemic's dynamics or advancements in understanding.
California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and Face Mask Guidance:
- In response to the CDC's decision, the CDPH has discontinued the Guidance for the Use of Face Masks. This suggests that state-level health authorities are adapting their recommendations based on the evolving situation.
County of San Diego's Mask Recommendations:
- The County of San Diego aligns its recommendations with the CDPH. They advise wearing masks around others if one has respiratory symptoms and for 10 days after significant exposure to a COVID-19 positive individual.
Importance of Masks in Specific Settings:
- Masks are emphasized in indoor public settings where vulnerable populations, such as older adults or those with underlying health conditions, may be present. This includes hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and long-term care facilities, as well as crowded indoor public settings with poor ventilation like public transportation.
Higher Level of Protection at Home:
- There are instances where a higher level of protection is recommended even at home, such as when caring for someone sick or suspected of having COVID-19.
Local Health Jurisdictions and Entities:
- The article notes that local health jurisdictions and other entities may continue to enforce specific mask requirements based on local circ*mstances, especially in higher-risk settings.
Masks as a Key Preventive Measure:
- Wearing masks consistently and correctly is emphasized as one of the most effective ways to protect against COVID-19 and other respiratory infections. This is particularly crucial for safeguarding vulnerable populations, including older adults and those with underlying health conditions.
Additional Resources:
- The article provides resources for further information, including an infographic on face coverings, face shield best practices, and guidelines from both the CDPH and CDC on various aspects of mask usage.

In summary, the information highlights the dynamic nature of public health recommendations in response to the evolving COVID-19 situation, emphasizing the importance of mask-wearing as a key preventive measure, especially in specific settings and for vulnerable populations.