Revised order requiring masks in public places

Governor Baker issued an Order effective April 30, 2021 requiring people to wear masks or face-coverings in indoor public places and outdoors when they are unable to maintain 6 feet from other people.

Face coverings will still be required at all times in indoor public places. Face coverings will also continue to be required at all times at events, whether held indoors or outdoors and whether held in a public space or private home, except for when eating or drinking.

At smaller gatherings in private homes, face coverings are recommended but not required.

Read DPH Guidance and Frequently Asked Questions.

https://www.mass.gov/news/mask-up-massachusetts

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-guidance.html

https://apnews.com/article/cdc-mask-wearing-guidance-d373775ddcf237764c19ff9428b59634

Tips on the proper use of masks and face coverings

There are many things that you can do to help protect yourself and others from becoming infected with COVID-19. People who show no symptoms of illness may still be able to spread COVID-19. A face covering may help prevent you from spreading COVID-19 to other people.

It is important that you wear these face coverings or masks in all public spaces (for example, in a pharmacy or grocery store) and also in any additional situations where it is difficult to maintain a social distance of six feet from others.

When you wear a cloth mask, it should:

Cover your nose and mouth,
Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face,
Be secured with ties or ear loops,
Include multiple layers of fabric,
Allow for breathing without restriction, and
Be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape.

When putting on and taking off a mask, do not touch the front of it, you should only handle the ties or ear straps, and make sure you wash the cloth mask regularly. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after touching the mask.

Cloth masks should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.

Basic instructions on How to Use Face Coverings Effectively are available in multiple languages on COVID-19 Printable Fact Sheets.

In addition to wearing a cloth mask you should continue to practice proven methods to protect yourself.