News

Scientific research shows that preventative measures such as hand washing and wearing cloth coverings over the nose and mouth are effective ways to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities by lowering the risk of exposure to COVID-19.  

That's why on June 24, 2020, Governor Roy Cooper announced that coverings over their nose and mouth must be worn when people are in both indoor and outdoor public spaces. This step, in addition to encouraging people to stay six feet apart, wash hands, and stay home when ill, will help us:  

• protect our families, friends, and neighbors from getting seriously ill
• restore our economy and get people back to work and get our children back to school

Growing evidence shows that cloth face coverings, when worn consistently, can decrease the spread of COVID-19, especially among people who are not yet showing symptoms of the virus.  

The following resources have been created to empower community partners and small businesses to communicate the cloth coverings state requirement to protect their loved ones, employees, and customers we invite you to share them through your own communication channels and with your partners.

1.  ChildCareStrong Public Health Toolkit
   • Brings together all updated interim guidance for child care facilities. The updated guidance includes requirements for staff and adults to wear cloth face coverings, and updated screening tools and protocols. 
2. Prevent and Protect Media Toolkit
   • Social media graphics in English and Spanish answering basic questions about wearing coverings over the mouth and nose.
   • Posters for businesses and community organizations to print and hang that remind people to wear cloth coverings over their nose and mouth and celebrate the commitment businesses in your community have made to protect employees and customers. We encourage you to place the posters in your breakrooms, waiting rooms, building entrances or doors, and other frequented locations.

 You can find more information about the new cloth covering Executive Order in this press release and answers to frequently asked questions in this Guidance and FAQS. 

Thank you for your continued efforts to work together to slow the spread of COVID-19, and for your commitment to ensuring your community and the communities you serve are informed and supported.