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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Getting Your Cloth Face Mask

Under “Project: America Strong”, the Federal Government is distributing reusable cotton face masks to critical infrastructure sectors, companies, healthcare facilities, and faith-based and community organizations across the country to help slow the spread of COVID-19. 

The demand for the face masks has exceeded supply. As a result, we are no longer accepting new requests. We are currently assessing requests on hand and prioritizing delivery to support populations most susceptible to the disease. If you have submitted a request, we ask that you allow 10-15 business days for processing and determination on whether your order can be fulfilled.

Cloth face masks are now widely available from a number of vendors, and it is even easy to make your own. By wearing a cloth face mask, you can help slow the spread of COVID-19 – and you might even save someone’s life.

Here are a few things you need to know about the face masks provided by the Federal Government:

 

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Wear the Face Mask as Part of a Plan to Protect your Community and Co-workers

Wearing this face mask, coupled with important safety measures recommended by the CDC, can help limit the spread of the virus in your community and to your co-workers, patients, or clients.



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Maximize Effectiveness of the Face Mask

The cotton face mask is a barrier between you and the people around you. The face masks provided by the government are 100% cotton and contain silver and copper, which help prevent the growth of viruses and germs.

We do not recommend that you alter the cloth face masks. Embellishing the face mask could restrict airflow and dyes may harm the protective materials used in the face mask, making it less effective.


Safety

Use Your Face Mask Safely

If you find you are sensitive to the materials that are used in the production of the face mask, please stop wearing it. Other kinds of cloth face masks will also provide protection


 

  

  • This page last reviewed: August 31, 2020