Recommendations for Facemask and Respirator Use, Where Influenza A (H1N1) Virus Transmission Has Been Detected or confirmed

In the absence of clear scientific data, the interim recommendations below have been developed on the basis of public health judgment and the historical use of facemasks and respirators in other settings.

When close contact with others cannot be avoided, the use of facemasks or respirators in areas where transmission of novel influenza A (H1N1) virus has been confirmed should be considered as follows:

1. Persons who are at high risk of complications from novel influenza A (H1N1) infection (for example, persons with certain chronic medical conditions, children less than 5 years, persons 65 or older, and pregnant women) should consider their risk of exposure to novel influenza if they attend public gatherings in communities where novel influenza A virus is circulating. In communities with several reported cases of novel influenza A (H1N1) virus infection, persons who are at risk of complications from influenza should consider staying away from public gatherings.
2. Based on currently available information, for non-healthcare settings where frequent exposures to persons with novel influenza A (H1N1) are unlikely, masks and respirators are not recommended.
3. Persons who are ill with influenza-like symptoms should stay home and limit contact with others as much as possible. When not alone or in a public place, protect others by wearing facemasks to reduce the number of droplets coughed or sneezed into the air and the time spent in crowded settings should be as short as possible.
4. Respirators should be considered for use by individuals for whom close contact with an infectious person is unavoidable. This can include selected individuals who must care for a sick person (e.g., family member with a respiratory infection) at home.