The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released new research this week that found wearing a cloth mask over a surgical mask offers more protection against the coronavirus.
Kentucky Public Health Commissioner Dr. Steven Stack said the research shows it’s important not to have gaps around the sides of the mask and to tie knots on the ear loops of surgical masks. He also said a mask is not a substitute for social distancing, even if you wear two.
click to download audioDr. Stack said to make sure the mask fits snugly against your face and to choose a mask with a nose wire. The CDC said not to combine two disposable masks and don’t layer another mask on top of a KN95 mask.
In addition to the mask guidance, the CDC said people who have been fully vaccinated against coronavirus can skip quarantine if they are exposed to someone infected with the virus.
Dr. Stack said that applies to people who are fully vaccinated which is having had both shots and at least two weeks having passed since the second shot.
click to download audioDr. Stack said it’s not known how long protection lasts, so people who had their last shot three months ago or more should still quarantine if they are exposed.
click to download audioHe said vaccinated people should also quarantine if they show symptoms.
