Atlantic, IA — Cass County Health System is implementing some additional measures to mitigate any possible spread of COVID-19 within their facilities. Officials say effective Wednesday, April 1st, all patients and visitors will now be given a cloth face mask to wear while they are in the building.

Amanda Bireline, Chief Nursing Officer, said “Cloth masks are effective for blocking the sneezes and coughs of a potentially infected person. These masks help to minimize the risk of spreading COVID-19.”

In order to be effective, masks must be worn over both the mouth and nose, and need to remain in place while coughing or sneezing. Bireline says “The masks are effective because they stop potentially infectious droplets from a cough or sneeze from landing on people or surfaces.”

Community members have donated over 340 masks to date. Bireline added, “We so appreciate our community members who have been sewing masks for us. We welcome as many as you can get to us!”