Frequently Asked Questions for the
DfG Masks4Millions Response
We are finding that different hospitals, clinics, long term care facilities, fire stations,
homeless shelters, food banks, and others who are in need of masks have various
requirements. In some cases they are looking for a mask that fits over an N-95 mask to
make them last longer, others are requesting a pocket to use for various filters to give to
patients, and in many other situations, a basic mask can be excellent for helping not touch
their face. Check with the group who you are making the masks for and ask if they have
a specific request before starting if possible. If you are unsure, the basic mask is well
received in a majority of situations - especially for immune-compromised individuals.
When you register with us, we will update you as information comes in.
2. Do you have video tutorials?
Yes, there are several options.
Please watch this video from Dr. Lauren Streicher for a basic surgical mask. From an emergency doctor on a creative way to make an R-95 here.
Face mask to put over an R-95 mask with an insert. Found here
As more options come online, we will continue to update.
3. What are medical personnel saying about the use of cloth masks?
"Cloth masks can be very helpful in preventing the spread of COVID-19.
Similar to paper surgical masks, cloth masks help prevent the transmission
of infectious droplets from the patient to the HCP (health care provider),
mainly if used in conjunction with eye protection and gloves (as
recommended by the CDC). Masks can also prevent potentially infectious
droplets from entering the air nearby. Though there is no data yet to
support this, cloth masks should work similarly to paper surgical masks as
they both act as a non-sterile physical barrier to person to person droplet
transmission. Due to the reusable nature of cloth masks, thorough washing
techniques after daily wear is an essential component of infectious disease
transmission reduction. The mask does not need to be sterilized but should
be cleaned with a disinfecting product such as soap and water. Cloth
masks could be an essential addition to existing medical equipment to help
prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Because both a surgical and cloth mask help prevent potentially infectious
droplets from a cough or sneeze from entering the air nearby, those with a
persistent cough should wear a mask when around others. Cloth masks
may be more comfortable in the long term and may lead to greater
adherence by those possibly infected individuals."
Dr. Karen E. Harris, MD, MPH
Day for Girls International Board Chair
Program Director for the OB/GYN Residency
UCF/HCA Consortium - Gainesville
4. I have heard that any type of mask other than an N-95 should not be used and
gives a fault sense of safety. Is that true?
There are differing opinions, and we are not medical experts. We do know that
there is a shortage, and all medical and immune-compromised people should be
prioritized to receive our N-95 supply. But we also have heard that for someone
who is sick, or finds a mask helps them not touch their face, then we also support
their choice, especially for those that are not able to stay at home (the preferred
location!)
Here is one article which quotes from Benjamin Cowling, an epidemiology
professor at the University of Hong Kong: "Masks are not a magic bullet against
coronavirus… but if everybody wears face masks, it probably can help, along with
all the other measures (like hand washing and social distancing), to reduce
transmission."
5. Are you still focused on ensuring menstrual products and health education
during this pandemic?
Yes! Because periods don't stop for pandemics, the need for healthy menstrual
products people can count on month after month will remain a quality option that
may be even more important to more of us as supply shortages occur.
6. Can I make masks for someone who isn't in the medical field?
Yes, we would encourage you to provide masks to anyone who is
immune-compromised, in the service field, and exposed to others or at particular risk
who is requesting one. Even with a mask, hand washing, and social distancing matters.
7. What is the Hashtag I should use for my photos when I share it on social
media?
#Masks4Millions and #PadstoMasks
Keep washing your hands, practicing social distancing, and STAY WELL. You
matter too. As more questions come in, we will continue to update this list.
Thank you!