CDC: Strategies for Optimizing the Supply of Facemasks

AUTHORITY: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

DATE PRODUCED: Last reviewed March 17, 2020

TYPE: Guidance/Protocol

THE QUESTIONS IT ANSWERS:

• How should staff operate with a limited supply of personal protective equipment?
• Are homemade masks considered personal protective equipment?
• What should staff do if there is a shortage of facemasks?
• What are some conventional, contingency and crisis capacity strategies?

SHORT DESCRIPTION:

This document offers a series of strategies or options to optimize supplies of facemasks in healthcare settings when there is limited supply.