Dallas County issued an amended Stay-At-Home order this week that requires people over the age of two to wear some form of covering over their nose and mouth, such as a homemade mask, scarf, bandana or handkerchief, when patronizing an essential business or using public transportation.
The order also requires that, to the greatest extent possible, all non-medical employees who work at an essential business or perform services that are exempt under the Stay at Home Order wear face coverings over their noses and mouths while performing their work. An owner or operator of an essential business may refuse admission or service to any individual who fails to wear a face covering.
The order goes into effect at midnight on Saturday, April 18.
It is important to note that face coverings are not a substitute for always practicing physical distancing and frequent handwashing. Their primary role is to reduce
the release of infectious particles into the air when someone speaks, coughs, or sneezes,
including someone who has COVID-19 but feels well.
The cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders, as recommended by current CDC guidance. Get DIY instructions from the CDC to make your own face covering from common household items.
View frequently asked questions from Dallas County.
Find more information about coronavirus and the current Dallas County case count at dallascounty.org/covid-19.
For local resources and information, visit cedarhilltx.com/covid-19.