I’ve been grappling about whether or not and how to write about Covid-19. There is so much information, real and false, out there, I didn’t want to add to the mix. But, since I decided to take the plunge, I’ll start with sharing a few things you can do to keep yourself and others safe.
As you know, the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) has recommended that all of us wear cloth face coverings to slow the spread of COVID-19. The use of face masks is to help prevent those who may be asymptomatic from spreading the disease to others. Wearing a face mask does not mean we should stop practicing social distancing, hand washing, and other safety precautions recommended by the medical community. Some people think wearing a face mask will prevent the wearer from getting sick. That has not conclusively been shown to be true. Here’s an article about the protections face masks offer.
News about this virus changes as quickly as the virus spreads, but since the CDC recommends that everyone wear face masks in public, here’s their article on why and how to wear face masks.
Trying to find a face mask to buy has been almost as difficult as trying to find toilet paper. (If you have any suggestions for that, let me know ASAP!) Many in the fashion industry have stepped up and are producing face masks in quantity to donate to healthcare workers and others. Let’s hear it for Christian Siriano who was one of the first to donate thousands of face masks to healthcare workers and first responders. (If you don’t follow him on Instagram, do.) Nicole Miller has posted directions on her social media platforms to make your own face mask. You can access those directions here. And, don’t worry if you don’t have a sewing machine. Hand stitching works just as well.
If you don’t want to make your own mask, PQ Swim, a swimwear brand, is doing their part by re-purposing their production lines and materials to create what they call a MasQini. 100% of MasQini proceeds will be used to produce MasQinis for charities and pay PQ Swim’s employees. (Bravo!) You can even DM your favorite charity to the PQ team for a chance to have MasQinis donated to the organization of your choice.
Additionally, 5% of net proceeds on all purchases, including MasQinis, will be donated to Feeding America COVID-19 Fund.
MasQinis come in adorable patterns because since you have to wear a mask, why not make it fashion? They cost $12 apiece and, as I write this, expected delivery is between 4/17-4/24. There is an $8.00 flat rate shipping fee, but delivery is free on orders of $50.00 or more.
One more thing: From now to July 6th, The New York Times is making digital access available to all US high school students. Please share this link with all the teachers and students you know.
Do your part. Wear a mask. Be safe. Be smart. Be healthy. Love to you all. Melody
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Fantastic, informative, timely article. Keep giving us helpful facts and information.
Thank you! I will try! Be healthy. Keep safe; keep your distance.
Great article yes hard to find. I had an eye mask that Robert has been using
Thanks for the informative info