As the number of positive COVID-19 cases continues to increase there is a greater need to protect the residents of Bergen County.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has issued new guidelines for the general public about wearing face coverings in public as an added measure of protection. The CDC reported that many individuals with coronavirus lack symptoms and that even those who eventually develop symptoms can transmit the virus to others before showing symptoms. In light of this new evidence, the CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.

The use of simple cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others.  Cloth face coverings fashioned from household items or made at home from common materials at low cost can be used as an additional, voluntary public health measure.

This new guideline has significant implications for our healthcare workers, who are on the front lines of the fight against COVID-19 and are lacking the (PPE) they need. At this time, I am recommending that the community use personal face protection, when going out in public. Your assistance in promoting the usage of cloth face coverings is warranted.