CHAMPAIGN - State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) is reminding residents to wear face coverings to help slow the spread of coronavirus. 

“You can keep yourself and others around you safe and healthy by wearing a face mask,” Bennett said. “In the grocery store and other places where social distancing may be difficult, wearing a mask can add an extra layer of protection.”

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), everyone over the age of 2 who can medically tolerate a face covering must wear one in a public place when unable to maintain a safe distance from others. 

Masks should cover your nose and mouth, fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face, be secured with ties or ear loops, and include multiple layers of fabric.

“No one is immune to this virus,” Bennett said. “Please continue to follow the health and safety guidelines put in place by the public health experts to reduce the spread of COVID-19.” 

For more guidance on use of masks, Bennett encourages residents to visit the IDPH website at dph.illinois.gov.