MyODP News Online
Masks: Cloth Face Coverings and Surgical Face Masks
In Pennsylvania, masks must be worn whenever anyone leaves home. On July 1, Secretary of Health Rachel Levine signed an official order requiring the universal use of face coverings. Masks are mandatory in all public spaces to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Masks are mandatory in all public spaces to stop the spread of
COVID-19. The Department of Health has published an FAQ sheet to address immediate concerns related to the
order. It is
required that staff who provide direct services wear a mask that covers the
nose and mouth during the entirety of service provision. The mask must be
a cloth covering or other mask that offers a higher degree of protection.
The only exception is if the staff person lives with the individual. This
applies to all ODP services. For staff, plastic face shields
are not acceptable alternatives to masks.
Please note: Cloth face coverings are not considered Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and should not be worn in place of a surgical face mask when caring for an individual with COVID-19.
For more information, please see ODP's Reissuing Guidance on Masks, Screening, and Handwashing and DOH's Universal Face Covering Order FAQ Sheet.
Updated July 14, 2020 at 9:00