NASHVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – If you are still in need of a cloth mask, the Montgomery County Health Department is now providing them for free.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends the use of cloth masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The CDC has issued the following guidelines for cloth masks:

When using a cloth face covering, make sure:

  • The mouth and nose are fully covered
  • The covering fits snugly against the sides of the face so there are no gaps
  • You do not have any difficulty breathing while wearing the cloth face covering
  • The cloth face covering can be tied or otherwise secured to prevent slipping
  • Avoid touching your face as much as possible
  • Keep the covering clean
  • Clean hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer immediately, before putting on, after touching or adjusting, and after removing the cloth face covering
  • Don’t share it with anyone else unless it’s washed and dried first
  • You should be the only person handling your covering. Laundry instructions will depend on the cloth used to make the face covering
  • In general, cloth face coverings should be washed regularly (e.g., daily and whenever soiled) using water and a mild detergent, dried completely in a hot dryer, and stored in a clean container or bag

The Montgomery County Health Department will have masks available during regular business hours, Monday – Friday 8am – 4:30pm.

For additional guidelines from the State of Tennessee Health Department visit their website.