Free face masks available for vulnerable Wellington residents

Single-use and re-usable face masks are available free for people in need, via selected local community groups.

Wellington Shire Council received an allocation of face masks from the State Government, which will be made available for those who cannot obtain their own.

Wellington is currently in Stage 3 of Covid-19 pandemic restrictions and the wearing of a face covering is mandatory for everyone when in public places. Face coverings help prevent the transmission of Covid-19 by stopping droplets spreading when someone speaks, laughs, coughs or sneezes.

Allocation of reusable or single-use masks is capped at two per person and is not an ongoing supply. Single-use masks should not be re-used and if the mask gets soiled or damp, replace it with a new one. Homemade masks, scarves and bandanas can also be worn in place of a mask.

Community organisations distributing masks on behalf of Council are: 123 Café, 123 Cunninghame St, Sale; The Salvation Army, 139 Cunninghame St, Sale; UnitingCare, 126 Raymond St, Sale; Neighbourhood House, 2/8 Cansick St, Rosedale; Neighbourhood House, 22 Bland St, Yarram; Loch Sport Community Care, 91-101 National Park Rd, Loch Sport.

Wellington Shire Mayor Alan Hall said the best way to reduce community transmission of Covid-19 was by keeping 1.5m away from others, washing hands often, and coughing or sneezing into your elbow or tissue.

“Face coverings, worn snugly around the face and specifically covering the nose and the mouth, are an additional protective barrier,” Cr Hall said.

Before putting on or removing a mask, hands must be washed for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, or hand sanitiser, made up of more than 60 per cent alcohol, used.

A used cloth face mask should be washed after each use and stored in a plastic bag until it can be cleaned. Single-use masks need to be disposed of responsibly in a rubbish bin.

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