US Surgeon General: Stop buying face masks
WASHINGTON D.C. (KYMA, KECY) - Americans worried about the coronavirus don't need to buy face masks, says the US Surgeon General.
Surgeon General Jerome M. Adams took to Twitter Saturday, urging the public to stop buying masks.
He warns it won't help against the spread of the coronavirus, and the frenzy could risk a shortage harmful to public health professionals.
The recent demand for the masks has led to a nation-wide shortage in pharmacies, as well as price increases and a rise of counterfeit products.
Doctors insist the most important step people can take to prevent illness is to stay clean, be aware of what you touch, and to practice good hygiene.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says masks should only be worn by medical professionals and those who are sick.
It does not suggest using face masks to protect against the coronavirus.
Instead, the CDC recommends the following everyday preventive actions to prevent the spread of respiratory diseases:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
