Mandatory and Voluntary Wearing of Masks in Public Settings
Mask-wearing has become a common precaution in many countries since the early stages of the pandemic. In the United States, opinions remain mixed about whether to wear masks in public. Many venues—shops, transit systems, airlines, and other shared spaces—may require masks for customers and staff, and some cities or states have put mask mandates into law. For more on the coronavirus, see our Coronavirus page.
If you decline to wear a mask on premises, some establishments may refuse entry, and in certain jurisdictions fines or penalties can apply for non-compliance.
Mandatory Use of Facial Protection
The CDC continues to recommend facial coverings in crowded indoor settings where social distancing is not possible. While many places have relaxed mandates, mask requirements remain in effect in certain venues and jurisdictions, particularly during periods of higher transmission.
Many cities continue to enforce mask requirements in public spaces. When traveling, check the latest local guidelines for healthcare facilities, transit, and indoor venues before you go. Be aware that enforcement varies by city and state, and some locations may impose penalties for non-compliance in public spaces. For practical hygiene practices, see our Hygiene knowledge for everyone article.
Should you wear a mask every time you leave the house?
It depends on where you are going.
Whether you should wear a mask depends on your destination. In places with close contact with others—such as grocery stores, pharmacies, healthcare facilities, public transit, salons, retail stores, and many restaurants—masking remains a common precaution in many jurisdictions. For more context, see our Coronavirus page.
Why should we wear the mask in public?
Wearing a mask helps reduce inhalation of dust, allergens, and respiratory aerosols in crowded or poorly ventilated settings. In areas with ongoing transmission, masks remain a simple, effective layer of protection to reduce spread when you are unsure about others’ infection status.
Voluntary Use of Masks
You may remove your mask when you are alone in a private vehicle, exercising outdoors with ample distance, or at home. If you are with others who do not share your living space, continue wearing a mask for precaution.
Why is it beneficial to make wearing a mask of your new habit?
Many people embrace mask-wearing for personal, medical, and social reasons. Evidence increasingly shows that masks can reduce transmission in everyday settings, not just during a pandemic.
Masks help reduce exposure to dust, pollutants, and irritants in urban environments, and can lower the risk of respiratory infections.
Should your kids wear face masks too?
Guidelines for children vary by age and location.
Children’s respiratory systems are still developing. Wearing a mask is generally advised to help prevent viral or bacterial infections, or allergies, especially in crowded public spaces.
Guidelines for children vary by location and age. Many places recommend masks for children aged 2 and older in public settings, with exemptions for medical conditions and younger children. Some jurisdictions have more relaxed rules for older kids, and adults should supervise younger children when masks are used.
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For broader health guidance during the pandemic, see our COVID-19 Pandemic article.
