MDHHS Asks Michiganders For ‘Mask Up, Mask Right’

DETROIT – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is launching an initiative to not only mask Michiganders, but also mask them.

“The science is now settled: masks protect others from COVID – and they protect the wearer,” said Robert Gordon, MDHHS director. “It’s important to wear the right mask and wear it the right way. We want all Michiganders Mask Up, Mask Right as we continue to fight the virus in our state. “

Proper masking involves wearing one of three types of masks that provide stronger protection: triple layer washable cloth face covers, medical grade disposable masks, or approved KN95 masks. It also includes wearing the approved mask correctly and securing it over the nose and face and snug fitting with no holes.

CDC has recommended the use of masks to protect the community by reducing the release of the virus and to protect the wearer by reducing inhalation. CDC cites a number of studies that show masks have been effective. For example, one study found that the use of masks on board the USS Theodore Roosevelt was associated with a 70% reduced risk of COVID; another showed that, in a contact finding study, those who reported wearing masks had a 70% lower risk of infection than those who didn’t. Published studies by Beaumont Hospital in Southeast Michigan also found that mask wearing was associated with lower levels of infection from COVID and, among those infected, lower symptoms.

Bandanas, gaiters and face shields without masks do not provide adequate protection for the wearer or others and are not recommended.

“The delivery of the first COVID-19 vaccines in Michigan means this pandemic will end,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, Chief Medical Executive and Chief Deputy for Health. “However, it will be several months before we have enough vaccine to distribute it widely to all Michiganders. Until then, and even for those who receive the vaccine, we should all do our part to slow the spread of this virus by wearing masks properly, avoiding large gatherings and washing hands. “

The number of confirmed cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Michigan has risen to 442,715 since Tuesday, including 10,935 deaths, state officials report.

Tuesday’s update features 4,730 new cases and 183 additional deaths, including 71 from a Vital Records review.

Residents in need of masks can pick one up from partner sites across the state, including most local MDHHS offices and Community Action Agencies.

Find a distribution site at Michigan.gov/MaskUpMichigan or call the COVID-19 hotline at 888-535-6136.