Vaccination of priority groups continues throughout Missouri, with 693,468 total doses administered in the state to date. With the vaccine still months away for many Missourians and new variants of the virus emerging, some may have questions about the practice of “double masking” and its effectiveness in stopping the spread of COVID-19.
Missouri continues to vaccinate members of Phase 1A and Phase 1B, Tiers 1 and 2.
So far, 8.7% of Missourians have received at least once dose of the vaccine, and 2.6% have received their second dose.
Eligible Missourians should watch for updates on how they can receive their doses of the vaccine.
Vaccination of these priority groups will take time. Missourians across all phases of distribution are encouraged to be patient and watch for updates from their health providers and local public health departments.
The new variants of COVID-19 appear to spread more easily between people. Some Missourians may be considering “double masking” in public to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
Double masking involves wearing one mask over another (typically surgical mask with a cloth mask on top) to block more particles from entering your nose and mouth.
The CDC is still studying the effectiveness of double masking and has not issued an official recommendation on the practice.
If double masking prevents breathability or causes discomfort, consider wearing a single face mask that offers sufficient protection instead. Face masks should:
Cover both your nose and mouth.
Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face.
Be secured with ties or ear loops.
Include multiple layers of fabric.
Be able to be washed with hot water in a washing machine.
NOT have a vent that allows particles to exit the mask.
Remember that masking – and double masking – is not a replacement for other measures of protection like staying home as much as possible, avoiding gatherings, hand washing and physical distancing.
For more information about how to #stopthespread in Missouri, visit our website at oneforallmo.com or connect with us on Facebook and Twitter. One for All Missouri campaign representatives are available to discuss in more detail.
