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Masks and Respirators

In areas with confirmed human cases of novel influenza A (H1N1) virus infection, the risk for infection can be reduced through a combination of actions. No single action will provide complete protection, but an approach combining the following steps can help decrease the likelihood of transmission.

Recommended Actions

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand cleaner* when soap and water are not available.
  
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
  
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
  
• People who are sick with an influenza-like illness (ILI) (fever plus at least cough or sore throat and possibly other symptoms like runny nose, body aches, headaches, chills, fatigue, vomiting and diarrhea) should stay home and keep away from others as much as possible, including avoiding travel, for at least 24 hours after fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Fever should be gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine). 
  
• Avoid close contact (i.e. being within about 6 feet) with persons with ILI.

Facemasks and Respirators

• Recommendations for the uses of facemasks and respirators are listed on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website.

At a glance:

• In community and home settings, the use of facemasks and respirators generally are not recommended. Exceptions to this recommendation.
• Use of N95 respirators or facemasks generally is not recommended for workers in  non-healthcare occupational settings for general work activities. Recommendations for work activities that involve contact with people with influenza-like illness.