Masks are an essential tool in California’s fight against COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses. Wearing a mask consistently and correctly is one of the best ways to protect yourself from getting COVID-19 or other respiratory infections.

An effective mask has both good fit and good filtration —respirators like N95, KN95 and KF94 are best.

Masks remain a critical component for protecting the most vulnerable people in our communities, including older adults, people who are immunocompromised, have certain disabilities or underlying health conditions, and are otherwise at increased risk of getting severe COVID-19 and other respiratory infections. You should also consider masking if:

You or others around you have respiratory symptoms (e.g. cough, runny nose and/or sore throat).
You’ve had a significant exposure to someone who tested positive for COVID-19 (wear a mask for 10 days).
You’re in higher risk settings (e.g. indoor crowded settings or indoor transportation centers).

Be sure to follow all local health rules, as well as health facility rules.

Learn more about masking from Get the Most Out of Masking.