Grey-Bruce Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Ian Arra, is recommending using face coverings as the province gets set for Phase 2 of its COVID-19 reopening strategy.
Beginning on Friday, June 12th, gatherings of up to 10 people will now be allowed, and in certain regions, churches and places of worship and a list of businesses, including restaurants (outdoor patios), hair salons and malls, will be allowed to re-open.
Dr. Arra is recommending that face coverings be used when physical distancing is not possible, and he also strongly recommends that retail employees wear cloth masks or other non-medical face coverings, and that patrons at retail settings wear cloth masks or other non-medical face coverings to prevent the spread of COVID-19. When worn properly, face coverings can help prevent the further spread of the disease.
Non-medical face masks or face coverings should:
- allow for easy breathing
- fit securely to the head with ties or ear loops
- maintain their shape after washing and drying
- be changed as soon as possible if damp or dirty
- be comfortable and not require frequent adjustment
- be made of at least 2 layers of tightly woven material fabric
- be large enough to completely and comfortably cover the nose and mouth
