Guidance on which masks work best, which ones to avoid, according to the Michigan Department of Health

DETROIT – Michigan health officials posted some guidelines on the use of masks (specifically with the right type of masks) to make sure you have enough protection.

MDHHS on Tuesday launched a new campaign called “Mask Up, Mask Right,” aimed at educating the public about the best types of masks to wear while in public.

“Science is already settled: masks protect others from COVID, and protect the wearer,” said Robert Gordon, MDHHS director. “It’s important to wear the right mask and wear it the right way. We want all Michiganders to wear masks, as we continue to fight the virus in our state. ”

“Mask well” includes wearing one of three mask options that offer stronger protection: washable three-layer washable fabric facial coatings, medical-grade disposable masks, or KN95-approved masks. It also includes wearing the properly approved mask and having it fixed on the nose and face and adjusting it perfectly without gaps.

Important note: Bandanas, leggings and face masks without masks do not provide adequate protection for the wearer or other people and are not recommended.

“Delivery of the first COVID-19 vaccines to Michigan means this pandemic will end,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical officer and deputy health officer. “However, it will be a few months before we can have enough vaccine to distribute it widely to all Michiganders. Until then, and even for people who get the vaccine, we should all do our part to stop the spread of this virus by wearing masks properly, avoiding large meetings and washing our hands.

Related: New studies confirm the importance of using masks in the midst of a COVID pandemic

Residents who need masks can pick one up from partner locations across the state, which includes most local MDHHS offices and community action agencies.

Find a distribution site at Michigan.gov/MaskUpMichigan or call COVID-19 at 888-535-6136.

Track the data on our COVID-19 data page here.