State officials distributing free masks

LANSING, Mich. (WBUP) — State Emergency Orders require residents to wear masks when people from two or more households are together or in any shared space.

This includes indoor or outdoor public spaces as well as businesses, schools, or government buildings.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is giving out 3.5 million free masks as part of the state’s “Mask Up, Mask Right” Campaign.

The free KN95 masks are available throughout the state including the Upper Peninsula.

The highest chance of transmitting COVID-19 from asymptomatic carriers spreading the virus to an uninfected person, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

Research shows that about 40% of people with COVID-19 may be asymptomatic.

“We are urging Michiganders to Mask Up and Mask Right to protect themselves, their loved ones and their communities from COVID-19,” said MDHHS Director Robert Gordon. “Wearing the right kind of mask is important. Today’s distribution of effective masks will help more Michiganders limit the spread of COVID to save lives and get back to normal sooner.”

You can wear a three-layered washable cloth mask, a three-layered disposable mask, or a KN95 mask to reduce the risk of spreading coronavirus. It is also important to wear the mask correctly by having it securely over your nose and mouth as well as fitting snugly without gaps.

Millions of free masks are being provided to residents through a partnership between the state health department, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The MI Mask Aid initiative helps make sure that cost is not a barrier for all residents to be able to have a face mask. Anyone who needs a mask can receive one through this program.