Why Are Masks Important?

A couple weeks ago, the Memphis City Council approved an ordinance that requires face coverings to be worn in public. While you probably know you need to mask up when you head outside your home, you may wonder why you need that mask.

That’s why our team at AFC Urgent Care Memphis wants to talk through why face coverings are important—and other steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from COVID-19.

Do Masks Really Work?

The short answer is yes. If two people are out within six feet of each other and both are wearing face coverings, the chances of transmitting COVID-19 are nearly non-existent.

That’s because COVID-19 is transmitted through airborne particles that are expelled when an infected person sneezes, coughs or even breathes.

When you’re wearing a mask, that prevents most of those airborne particles from getting out into the air. That, in turn, lessens the risk of transmitting the virus to others.

Why do you need one if you aren’t sick, you might wonder? Well, research has shown that this virus is often transmitted by people who are asymptomatic (meaning they don’t have symptoms but are infected) or pre-symptomatic (meaning before the symptoms show up).

So, wearing a mask when out in public helps ensure that others aren’t exposed to your airborne particles just in case you happen to be sick and unaware.

What Else Can I Do to Protect Myself?

In addition to wearing a cloth face covering when out in public, you should also take other steps to protect your health. Your best defense against COVID-19 is still to stay home whenever possible.

But if you need to venture outside the home, you should:

  • Stay at least six feet away from others at all times.
  • Avoid interaction with anyone who may be sick.
  • Stay away from large groups and gatherings.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds each time.
  • Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water is not available.
  • Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.

We are still here for you! Visit the AFC Urgent Care Memphis website to schedule an AFC TeleCare visit, or stop by our office.