Officials asked the population to use face masks in public, but does not compel them.
California Governor Gavin Newsom on Thursday recommended that state residents wear face masks while in public places, especially in grocery stores, to curb the spread of the coronavirus, but failed to impose them.
"We have been very clear that if you go to an environment where physical distance is almost impossible, for example, in a grocery store with small aisles and a long line, we think it would be additive and beneficial to have a face mask," he warned. Newsom on a conference call.
In a guide published Wednesday, state health officials in the state said the fabric coverings could help remind others to keep their distance and reduce the spread of the virus by asymptomatic carriers.
However, they stressed that physical distancing and frequent hand washing remain the best actions Californians can take to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus.
The Governor has been trying to ensure that N-95 masks and other protective equipment are intended for California healthcare workers, and yesterday stressed that these products should be for the direct fight against the coronavirus.
There were also several calls this week from local authorities for residents to cover their mouths and noses while outside their homes.
The Angels
The city of Los Angeles will begin to have a new look among residents who follow instructions to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus.
Mayor Eric Garcetti asked the public on Wednesday to start wearing cloth face masks when he goes outside. These can be like a scarf or kerchief. Many ways to create them with or without a sewing machine have been published on the internet.
"I know it will look surreal," Garcetti said, donning a mask while on a conference call. "But we are going to have to get used to seeing ourselves like this."
The official emphasized that, by following this measure, we can prevent contaminants from passing into our mouth or nose.
"Using them on the streets is something that will help all of us control that spread and, more importantly, when they go to the grocery store or some other place, they will prevent frontline workers from getting sick."
In the same vein, Riverside County released a guide to wearing masks when performing essential tasks like grocery shopping and doctor visits.
“Facial linings don't have to be hospital grade, they have to cover the nose and mouth. For example, bandanas, cloth masks, and neck gaiters are accepted. Cloth covers and scarves can be washed and reused, ”the county said.
Cameron Kaiser, a Riverside public health official, clarified in a statement that "they are seeing the numbers increase even earlier than anticipated and that means the strategy must also change."
The new recommendations came after the director of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Robert Redfield, confirmed in an interview with National Public Radio (NPR) on Wednesday that the agency was reviewing its guidelines on who should wear masks.
This Thursday, New York Mayor Bill de Blasio, at a press conference, recommended that city residents wear a face shield when outside and around other people.
The suggestion does not replace the orders of social distancing, de Blasio insisted.
From necessity to employment
Carolina Luna and her husband Obed Luna have a Black Sunshine T-shirt company and two weeks ago when the “nonessential” businesses were announced to close they had to close and fire their 22 employees.
However, soon afterwards they saw the need to make masks to prevent the spread of the coronavirus and they, having three sewing machines available, decided to get down to work.
"My husband saw how to do them and we started again," said Caro, asserting that they now have three employees hired. "We saw the urgency that was in the community."
Luna said they make around 500 face masks daily and some sell them and others donate them, such as to the Downey Police Department and families in need.
Garcetti said that about 400 apparel manufacturers, including the Luna, have pledged to make around two million cloth masks per week for essential workers such as those in supermarkets and warehouses, as the infection is not protected. of the virus could be fatal.
This note was made with information from Jacqueline García
