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Do I need to wear a mask to prevent coronavirus?

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You should wear a mask if you have to take care of someone that is ill and since April 17, face coverings are required if you are going to leave the house and be around others.  The San Mateo County Health Officer, in coordination with other Bay Area health departments, requires residents to cover their nose and mouth with a face covering, such as a bandana, scarf, towel, or other piece of cloth or fabric, when leaving home in many situations. These include doctor appointments, grocery shopping, pharmacy visits and riding on public transit, among others. Children aged 3 to 12 years are not required to wear a face covering, but if they do, they should be supervised by an adult (those under 2 years should not wear masks). The public should NOT use medical masks as these should be preserved for first responders and health care workers. You can read more about how masks are helping to spread Coronavirus according to UCSF here. (June 29, 2020)