As we face continuing increased COVID-19 cases in the state of Minnesota and the county of Winona, it’s important to stay steadfast in helping prevent further spread of the virus. We want to remind you that properly wearing a proper mask inside university buildings is a step the university requires you to take for your safety and the safety of the university community. Please note that faculty do have the right to ask a student to leave a class if the student is not wearing a mask correctly.
To make sure you are properly protected, there are some things you should and should NOT do when wearing a mask or cloth face covering:
- Wear a face mask, not a bandana or gaiter.
- Make sure your mask covers your face from the bridge of your nose down to your chin.
- Try to fit the mask snugly against the sides of your face, making sure there are no gaps.
- Make sure you can breathe easily through the mask.
- Wash the mask regularly using water and a mild detergent; dry it completely in a hot dryer; store it in a clean container or bag.
- Do not allow the mask to slip under your nose and don’t wear it on your forehead or around your neck.
- Do not touch the inside of the mask, as it may be contaminated from your breathing, coughing or sneezing.
We recognize that we are all tired of being cooped up, tired of being careful, and tired of being scared. Our collective fatigue is making some people careless in terms of wearing their masks correctly. We all want to do the right thing to keep ourselves and others safe, even if that means a slight inconvenience. Let’s recommit to wearing our masks correctly. Together, we are stronger. Together, we are Saint Mary’s.
