FMNS Directive on Non-Medical Grade Cloth Face Masks

Canadians are now being encouraged to wear non-medical face masks when in public spaces. Dr. Strang has said that “emerging evidence led the country’s chief medical officers of health to reach the consensus that people wearing non-medical grade masks in public may play a role in preventing the spread of the virus to others”. He indicated that wearing masks may be helpful in preventing the spread of the virus, given that there is no way to know if you’re pre-symptomatic or asymptomatic.

Going forward, FMNS recommends that non-medical cloth face coverings be worn by all farmers’ market staff, volunteers & producers while preparing, packing, and delivering orders. We also recommend that customers wear cloth face coverings when picking up their orders. This directive is intended to add an additional measure to keep everyone safe, and should be used in concert with physical distancing, frequent hand washing and sanitization, as well as the advice set out in our Safe Delivery Guide. Please consult the Nova Scotia government website on COVID-19 for the most up to date information.

Non-medical cloth face coverings may be sewn masks, or made by simply using a special technique to fold a piece of fabric, such as a scarf or t-shirt.  There are a number of Nova Scotian farmers’ market vendors offering non-medical cloth face masks for sale, find an online store near you for more information.