In an alert to all healthcare workers in Missisisppi. the Mississippi Department of health recommends all workers wear a surgical mask throughout the day.
From MSDH:
Recommendations for Universal Masks for Healthcare Professionals
Given the rising number of cases of COVID-19 in Mississippi, and the increased risk of exposure to healthcare professionals and patients, the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) recommends that all healthcare workers wear surgical masks throughout the workday.
This recommendation applies to healthcare professionals working in clinical care areas, even if they do not come into direct contact with patients. Healthcare professionals included in this recommendation are all paid and unpaid persons serving in healthcare settings with the potential for either direct or indirect exposure to patients or infectious materials, contaminated medical supplies or contaminated environmental surfaces.
Masks should be replaced when they become soiled or moist but should never be used for more than one day. If surgical masks are not available, locally produced masks of similar quality or homemade cloth masks can be used. Cloth masks should be laundered daily in hot water and dried with high heat.
When caring for patients with possible COVID-19 symptoms, MSDH still recommends a minimum complement of a surgical mask, eye protection and gloves. When caring for patients with known COVID-19 we strongly recommend strict compliance with CDC’s infection control guidance.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
