Wearing face masks around others still proves to be one of the most effective ways to avoid getting sick, say researchers at U-M.

Many people still have questions about wearing masks and how to care for them.

President Joe Biden is expected to announce information about his plan to send high-quality masks to Americans for free.

On Friday, Washtenaw County Health Department officials urged community members to use available strategies to prevent cases of severe illness and reduce transmission.

Supplies are limited and will be given out on a first-come-first-served basis by the Washtenaw County Health Department.

The Washtenaw County Health Department is urging residents to get vaccinated, avoid large gatherings and isolate from others if sick.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Workers in the service industry in need of masks will soon have help thanks to an Ann Arbor organization looking to distribute over 1,000 masks around Tree Town. Service Industry Workers of the Ann Arbor Area will distribute mask packages (see above) to industry workers in need in Washtenaw County. The organization is focused on mutual aid efforts for industry workers in need, workplace organization and service worker advocacy. During the 2020 holiday season, it raised over $10,000 in mutual aid for service workers struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic. Workers in the service industry can also stay up-to-date with the organization’s plans and planned events through its Facebook group.

(AP Photo/Matt Slocum, File)The state of Michigan will distribute 3.5 million KN95 face coverings at no cost to residents as part of the state’s masking campaign. Free KN95 masks provided by MDHHS will be distributed by community organizations, including local MDHSS offices, health departments and Area Agency on Aging offices. KN95 masks are similar to but should not be confused with N95 masks that are intended for health care workers who are engaged as part of their work in higher-risk settings. In addition to MDHHS offices, local health departments and Area Agency on Aging offices, the free masks are available from Community Action Agencies. Mask Up, Mask Right.