The USA is encouraging Americans to wear face masks. There is talk about whether or not face masks are effective to slow down the spread of COVID-19. The government is encouraging Americans to use homemade things like face masks and scarves. The WHO has recommended that people who are not sick do not need to wear masks or cover their face. However, other organisations say face masks can help to slow the virus. They say people in countries like Singapore and South Korea wear masks and reported infection rates are lower.
Some health experts believe that masks could cut the risk of people spreading the virus and protect those who have not contracted it. Other health officials worry that if everyone buys masks, there may not be enough for nurses and doctors. They say masks could make people feel safe and mix more with other people. Health experts also worry that homemade masks are insufficient to prevent people from catching the virus. The White House said: "The most important thing is the social distancing, washing your hands and not touching your face."