NEW YORK — City officials said Thursday they now recommend using an improvised covering of your face like a scarf.
The new recommendation is based on a number of studies done recently about people who have COVID-19 but have yet to show symptoms. Some studies suggest even breathing on near others when pre-symptomatic can infect someone else.
However, since proper face masks are scarce, and needed for medical professionals and other first responders, the recommendation has millions wondering what is the most effective improvised covering.
The guidance is to use cloth-based material that covers the nose and mouth, and something that have be thrown in the wash.
“Every little bit help. I don’t think it’s as helpful as physical distancing, and self-quarantining,” said CUNY epidemiologist Dr. Denis Nash.
Nash said the most practical impact of an improvised mask might be to encourage that safe behavior.
