City of Springfield, MO

01/18/2022 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/18/2022 12:42

Health Department to distribute 50,000 surgical masks to community partners

As the highly transmissible Omicron variant of COVID-19 makes its way through Greene County, having access to high-quality face masks may not be possible for many members of our community.

The Springfield-Greene County Health Department recognizes this need and has partnered with local organizations to distribute 50,000 surgical masks to the community as part of the Slow the Surge campaign. In addition to up to 50 masks per family, families will also receive a COVID-19 care kit that will include information on COVID-19 prevention, a digital thermometer, tissues, and hand sanitizer.

Members of the public can receive masks at Springfield-Greene County Library branches in Springfield starting Tuesday, Jan. 18. This includes:

  • The Library Center, 4653 S Campbell Ave.
  • The Library Station, 235 N. Kansas Expy.
  • Midtown Carnegie, 397 E. Central St.
  • Park Central, 128 Park Central Sq.
  • Schweitzer Brentwood, 2214 Brentwood Blvd.

Masks and COVID-19 kits can be picked up at Springfield-Greene County Library branches in Ash Grove, Fair Grove, Republic, Strafford and Willard later this week.

Select organizations that serve populations unlikely to have access to high-quality face masks will also have masks available to their participants, such as organizations that serve unsheltered members of the community and food pantries. Organizations who serve and are willing to distribute masks to individuals with low access can contact [email protected].

The CDC recommends everyone over the 2 years old wear a mask indoors, especially in areas of substantial or high transmission. Face masks should completely cover the nose and mouth and fit snugly. When worn properly, any mask gives a person some protection against COVID-19, but a higher-quality mask, like a surgical, N95 or KN95, provides a higher level of protection against transmission. These masks include filtration systems that prevent you from inhaling virus particles in the air.

##

Media may contact the Health Department PIO Team by call or text at 417-380-2556 or email at [email protected].

Springfield-Greene County Health Department

"Helping people live longer, healthier, happier lives."

health.springfieldmo.gov | facebook.com/SGCHD | twitter.com/SGCHD

417-864-1658

227 E. Chestnut Expressway