Even as more and more people get vaccinated against COVID-19, masks are still a proven way to help stop the spread of the virus.
COVID-19 can spread when people breathe, talk, cough, or sneeze. A well-fitting mask keeps the virus from reaching others. It can also protect the wearer from becoming infected. Also, masks stop people from touching their mouths and faces — contaminated hands are another way for the virus to spread.
In most public places in the U.S., masks are no longer required for healthy people who haven't been exposed to COVID-19. But it’s still a good idea for people to wear them (especially indoors or in crowded outdoor settings) if they:
Mask guidelines can change based on the rates of COVID-19 in a community at any given time. For now, people should always wear masks in a health care setting, if they have COVID-19, or if they have been exposed to it.
The only people who should not wear a mask are children younger than 2 years old, and anyone who can't take a mask off without help.
Many studies have shown that masks can be safely worn by children over age 2, even if they have a health condition. Concerns about masks being unsafe have been disproven. Masks will not block oxygen from getting into a child’s lungs, and they don't affect learning and development.
Some types of masks are better than others. For masks to be most effective, they should:
Wash cloth masks often, and throw out disposable masks after use. Respirators can usually be reused a few times, until they are dirty or damaged and no longer fit snugly. Store these in a paper bag between uses.
To help kids wear masks:
For more information about masks, visit the CDC's guide.
Reviewed by: Jana L. Teagle, CTRS, CCLS, CBIS, Elana Pearl Ben-Joseph, MD
Date Reviewed: Aug 15, 2022