The spread of coronavirus has left our nation, and the world, in a frenzy. In an effort to stop the spread, many states have made face masks mandatory. In Maryland, masks are mandatory when you are inside a building, or when you cannot remain at least 6 feet away from others. Contrary to what many people think, healthy people should wear a mask too, not just those on their way to a coronavirus testing center.

Wearing A Mask

While there has been some controversy over the subject, the general rule is to wear a mask even if you feel healthy. According to doctors, wearing a mask help prevent respiratory droplets from spreading as far as they otherwise would.

So, if a person has a respiratory infection, coughing, breathing, and sneezing can spew droplets 6-14 feet away. Masks help reduce the distance these droplets can travel. Therefore, they help prevent the transmission of the virus.

[Related: Symptoms of COVID-19]

A Word From the Experts

“Should I wear a mask at the grocery store?”

Definitely wear one when you go to the grocery store, which does not mean you don’t need to keep that six-foot distance as well. If I were in a grocery store, I’d wear my mask to protect others.

But if someone isn’t wearing one to protect me, I’d steer as far away from them as I could. -  Catherine Troisi, PhD, infectious disease epidemiologist at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston.

“Should I wear a mask in the car?”

If you’re with family members in your household, there’s no reason to put a mask on. When you interact with someone who is not in your physical distance sphere, put one on. Carry one in your car in case you need to get gas. - Lisa M. Lee, PhD, public health expert specializing in infectious disease epidemiology and public health ethics at Virginia Tech.

“Should I wear a mask at home?”

Nope. Unless you are unable to social distance and have a lot of housemates who are going and coming all the time. In those scenarios, you should all wear a mask. -Suzanne Willard, PhD, associate dean for global health and clinical professor division of advanced nursing practice at Rutgers School of Nursing

When to Wear a Mask

Generally, if it something that can wait, like a dental cleaning, then you should wait.  Services that require close contact with customers, like hair and nail salons, should definitely be avoided right now.

If you take public transportation, you should definitely wear a mask and do your best to distance yourself from others. However, if you are out for a run, a walk, or a bike ride you can go without the mask as long as you aren’t in a crowd.

It is easier to maintain your distance when you are outside so these are good activities to keep you happy and healthy.

What if I Get Sick?

If you are sick and think that you might have the coronavirus, you should get tested. First, remember that it is important to prevent transmitting it to other people.

You should begin by scheduling a telemedicine appointment to discuss your symptoms. If the doctor thinks that you should be tested, you will be given instructions for how to proceed. Follow these instructions closely to prevent spreading the virus.

Coronavirus Testing in Maryland

If you are concerned that you might have coronavirus, contact Bowie Internal Medicine today to schedule a telemedicine appointment. Our physicians can discuss your symptoms and advise you on how to proceed with coronavirus testing.