Wear a mask and help stop the spread of COVID-19

Published on 04 August 2020

It is now a requirement for people 12 years old and over throughout Victoria to wear a face mask when leaving their place of residence as the effort to reduce the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19) continues.

People who do not wear face coverings and do not have a lawful excuse can be fined $200.

Gannawarra Shire Council, along with local health services Northern District Community Health, Kerang District Health, Cohuna District Hospital and Mallee District Aboriginal Service, are encouraging Gannawarra Shire residents to familiarise themselves with how to use a face mask correctly.

“The most important thing is that the mask or face covering has no holes and provides a snug cover over your mouth and nose,” Mayor Lorraine Learmonth said.

“Wash your hands thoroughly or use hand sanitiser before you put the face mask on and after you take it off and avoid touching the outside of the mask while it is being worn. If the mask gets soiled or damp, replace it with a new one otherwise face masks should be replaced daily.

“If you need to remove the mask, for example to eat, have a clean zip lock bag handy to ensure that the mask can be stored in a clean location. Fit and remove a mask by holding the ear loops and not the mask itself.”

Northern District Community Health Chief Executive Officer, Mandy Hutchinson added that if using a single-use disposal mask, the coloured side needs to face outwards and if there is a metallic strip this should be at the top of the mask to position the mask firmly against the bridge of the nose.

“You can make your own mask with the Department of Health and Human Services recommending that cloth masks be of washable fabric and three layers of a mix of breathable fabrics to ensure adequate protection,” Ms Hutchinson said.

“A number of charitable organisations such as local neighbourhood houses, Lions clubs and local small businesses are making re-usable masks that residents are able to purchase.”

The Victorian Department of Health recommends that if people are unable to afford or unable to access a mask, a scarf or bandana can be used as an interim measure.

Lawful exemptions from using a face mask include for people with a medical condition or other condition that impairs their ability to wear a face covering, doing strenuous exercise or if work is unable to be performed while wearing a face covering.

“While a mask will not stop you from catching Coronavirus (COVID-19) it will help to reduce transmission. It is therefore important for residents to continue to stay home if sick and get tested, practice physical distancing by staying 1.5 metres from others whenever possible, maintaining good hand hygiene, and by coughing and sneezing into your elbow,” Ms Hutchinson said.

For more information, visit www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus