Cloth Masks Now Recommended
The Mecklenburg County Public Health Department is advising residents to use simple cloth face coverings when in public settings where social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g. grocery stores and pharmacies).
This precaution is recommended to slow the spread of COVID-19 and help people who may be transmitting the virus without knowing it.
Remember: wearing a cloth face mask does NOT change the importance of complying with the state’s Stay at Home Order.
Here are some things to keep in mind when using a cloth face mask:
- Routinely wash the face covering and ensure that it is completely dry before using it again. It’s recommended to use a washing and drying machine.
- Avoid adjusting the mask by touching your face while wearing the mask.
- Continue to practice frequent hygiene while wearing the mask.
- Avoid touching your face when removing the mask and wash your hands immediately after removing it.
- If you’d like more information on the “dos and don’ts” of using a mask, please review this document.
New Requirements for Retail Stores
This week, Governor Cooper issued an additional Order for essential businesses to safeguard the health of customers and employees. Some of the directives include:
- Limiting the number of people in a store at one time to 5 people per 1,000 square feet of retail space or 20% of fire marshal posted occupancy limits.
- Marking six feet of distance in areas where people gather, such as checkout lines.
- Requiring specific cleaning measures for retail stores.
In addition, the Order also encourages:
- Implementing hygiene recommendations for employees and customers, like hand sanitizer at the doors and face coverings for workers.
- Establishing designated shopping times for high-risk groups.
- Creating barriers between customers and employees at checkout to lower the risk of required interactions. Review this document to read the full Executive order.
