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Free N95 Masks Available to the PublicĀ 

Posted 2/2/2022 by krauter-egge@co.wood.wi.us

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

2/2/22

CONTACT: Susan Kunferman, Wood County Health Department Director/Health Officer

(715) 421-8911

Free N95 Masks Available to the Public 

Wisconsin Rapids, WI – In an effort to increase access to high-quality masks to control the spread of COVID-19, the federal government has shipped N95 and KN95 masks across the United States to be given to the public. N95 and KN95 masks provide better protection against COVID-19 compared to other mask types because they filter out more airborne particles. Previously, the CDC did not recommend the general public to wear N95 or KN95 masks in order to reserve them for healthcare workers. However, these masks are now more widely available.

N95 masks used in a healthcare setting must be fit-tested due to the higher risk activities/exposures in these settings. Fit-testing ensures proper seal, but is not required for the general public’s use of these masks. Even without fit-testing, this type of mask will provide a better fit for most, if worn properly.

The Wood County Health Department received our shipment from the State of Wisconsin this week and have distributed N95 masks to multiple locations throughout Wood County. FREE N95 masks will be available (while supplies last) during municipal office hours if applicable, at town/board meetings, and during elections. The following municipalities have agreed to have masks available for the public to pick up:

  •       City of Pittsville
  •       Town of Auburndale
  •       Town of Grand Rapids
  •       Town of Hansen
  •       Town of Marshfield
  •       Town of Port Edwards
  •       Town of Rudolph
  •       Town of Sherry
  •       Town of Sigel
  •       Town of Wood
  •       Village of Arpin
  •       Village of Auburndale
  •       Village of Biron
  •       Village of Hewitt
  •       Village of Milladore
  •       Village of Port Edwards

Masks are also available at the following locations:

  •       Marshfield Area United Way
  •       Marshfield Clinic Health System YMCA
  •       United Way of South Wood & Adams County
  •       Wood County Clerk’s Office
  •       Wood County Health Department

Learn how to properly wear and store your N95 mask https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/use-n95-respirator.html

If you are 2 years or older, you should wear a mask indoors in public. With the high level of community transmission, you should assume you may be a close contact to someone who is COVID positive when in public and at events. 

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