To our wonderful Australian Days for Girls leaders, volunteers and supporters
You may be aware that there has been quite a bit of discussion on Days for Girls Australia social media regarding the recent call from Celeste to make reusable face masks as a response to the Covid-19 outbreak (Masks4Millions Campaign).
This action was a response to a shortage of surgical masks in the USA, where hospitals approached Days for Girls for reusable masks. We have not had a similar request in Australia, nor are we likely to because of our strict therapeutic goods standards.
Our research revealed conflicting advice on the efficacy of surgical and cloth masks in preventing people from contracting the virus. Evidence is that sterile surgical masks are preferable, though by no means one hundred percent effective.
The Australian Board is concerned that people may place more trust in a reusable mask than is warranted or proven and we would urge caution when making and/or distributing any hand-sewn cloth masks. People should be aware that the science indicates that wearing a mask will not fully protect you from contracting the Covid-19 virus. Further, wearing a mask must always be combined with frequent handwashing and keeping your hands away from your face.
This does not of course preclude you and your volunteers from making masks for your personal or family use - or on request. It does mean that you need to be very clear when distributing them, as to their limitations.
We also ask that should you decide to make masks for your personal or family use, or on request, that you do not promote them as Days for Girls masks or badge them with a Days for Girls label.
We are all hoping that you are following health guidelines and staying well. Please let us know if you need any added support at this time by contacting your Team or Chapter Leader, or your State Coordinator or Director. We also encourage you to reach out to each other, whether you are helping to save lives by staying home, or by continuing to work to support our community.
Warmest regards
Lynne Sutherland
President Days for Girls Australia Limited
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