 The FDA is working to address the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak and keep you and your family informed on the latest developments. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions from consumers about masks, face coverings, and preventing COVID-19. Q: Should I wear a face covering or mask when I go out in public? A: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend wearing masks in public when other social distancing measures are hard to maintain. Effective Feb. 2, 2021, masks are required on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States and in U.S. transportation hubs, such as airports and stations. Read more about the CDC's Mask Requirement. The FDA has authorized the emergency use of face masks, including cloth face coverings, that meet certain criteria to slow the spread of the virus by the general public and health care personnel in accordance with CDC recommendations. The FDA also regulates other medical devices, including personal protective equipment (PPE) such as surgical masks and N95 respirators. The CDC recommends that PPE should be reserved for use by health care workers, first responders, and other frontline workers whose jobs put them at much greater risk of contracting COVID-19.
Read more about types of face masks and the FDA's emergency use authorization for non-surgical face masks. Q: How can I prevent COVID-19? A: The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus. The CDC recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases. They include: - Wash your hands often with plain soap and water. The CDC recommends washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, the CDC recommends using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol. Learn more about safely using hand sanitizer.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face covering or non-surgical mask when around others. Find more information about how to select, wear, and clean your mask.
- Avoid crowds and practice social distancing (stay at least 6 feet apart from others). Learn how to protect your family in this Consumer Update and the importance of getting your flu vaccine.
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