Effective June 26, people in Washington are required to wear a face covering when out in public. But why, you might wonder?

The truth is, face coverings are one of our best defenses against the spread of COVID-19 until a vaccine is produced and distributed. Our team at AFC Urgent Care Southcenter wants to take a few minutes to talk through why they’re important and other ways you can protect yourself and others.

How Do You Get COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a type of the coronavirus, a group of viruses that cause upper respiratory infections. You’re likely familiar with another type of the coronavirus—the common cold.

COVID-19 spreads from one person to another through airborne particles. These are emitted into the air when someone who is infected sneezes, coughs, speaks or breathes. This is true even if the person doesn’t have any symptoms.

The Symptoms of COVID-19

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

What Do Masks Do to Limit the Spread of COVID-19?

We mentioned above that COVID-19 spreads through airborne particles. When everyone wears a mask while out in public, the mask traps most of those particles inside.

This limits the transmission of particles out into the air, which reduces the spread of COVID-19. Research has shown that transmission is reduced by as much as 70%.

Other Ways to Prevent COVID-19

• Stay at home whenever it is possible.
• Avoid large gatherings and crowds.
• Stay six feet away from others when out in public.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds at a time.
• Keep unwashed hands away from your face.
• Disinfect commonly touched surfaces often.
• Avoid contact with anyone who may be sick.

In need of medical care? Stop by AFC Urgent Care Southcenter for a diagnosis and treatment plan to get you back to your best.