COVID-19 update for April 5: Fabric Face Masks recommended on Campus

Starting Monday, April 6, Roanoke College recommends that employees, students and any individuals on the Roanoke College campus follow the latest CDC recommendation and wear fabric face masks in public.

The CDC now recommends that individuals wear fabric face masks to prevent community-based transmission of COVID-19 in public settings. The CDC cites recent studies showing that a “significant portion of individuals with COVID-19 lack symptoms (are “asymptomatic”) and that even those who eventually develop symptoms can transmit the virus to others before showing symptoms.  The virus can spread between people interacting in close proximity—for example, speaking, coughing, or sneezing—even if those people are not exhibiting symptoms.” 

For this reason, Roanoke College recommends that all individuals on campus wear fabric face masks. Face masks can be made from items found in most households. The CDC created a video to show how to create a mask using these items. 

The CDC also reminds us that it is critical to maintain at least 6-ft. social distancing as an important step in slowing the spread of COVID-19.

Stay safe and healthy, Maroons. Please reach out to healthservices@roanoke.edu if you have questions.