Are you confused about whether or not to wear a face mask? It seems that we’ve been given conflicting information regarding face masks ever since the coronavirus pandemic started.

We remember seeing a few people wearing face masks to the grocery store when news about COVID-19 first started. This was before Safer at Home orders started around the country.

We remember thinking that wearing a face mask when you weren’t experiencing any symptoms seemed a little excessive, but perhaps the people wearing face masks were wearing them to protect themselves from getting sick.

Originally, we were told that as long as we practiced social distancing and stayed home if we were sick, we didn’t need to wear a face mask. We were also told that it was only important for health care workers and first responders to wear face masks.

Now, the story has changed. Some cities in the United States actually require everyone to wear a face mask when going to public places. For example, in Los Angeles, you can’t enter a bank, grocery store or other business unless you’re wearing a face mask.

So, are the face masks to protect the people wearing them or to protect everyone else? The answer is that face masks, especially the fabric face masks the general public is currently being encouraged to wear, do a much better job of protecting others from getting sick than they do of preventing the wearer from getting sick. Basically, the masks help hold our germs in if we happen to cough, sneeze or spit when we talk. If we all wear masks, we’re protecting everyone around us.

You might be wondering why you would need to wear a face mask if you don’t feel sick, but this video from Vox should help clear things up. Watch the video below to hear experts explain what exactly face masks can do to protect us and why you should consider wearing one even if it’s not required where you live and even if you don’t think you’re sick.

If you don’t have a face mask, it’s super easy to DIY one. If you have some basic sewing skills, check out this easy DIY face mask pattern. If you don’t know how to sew, try this easy to make face mask. If you don’t have any fabric on hand, this face mask made from a napkin will work for a quick trip to the store.

Are you required to wear a face mask in your city? Are you going to wear a face mask when you go to the store?