Via Christi asks for cloth masks to keep every face covered during COVID-19 pandemic

Ascension Via Christi is asking for donations of cloth masks to ensure everyone walking through the door has protection from the new coronavirus.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommended last week that cloth masks be worn in “public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.” The recommendation was in light of studies showing a “significant portion of individuals” with the coronavirus lack symptoms and people who eventually show symptoms can transfer the virus before they do.

The Via Christi Foundation previously asked for supplies, including N-95 rated masks, but added cloth masks this week in response to the CDC recommendations. The CDC also provided instructions on how to make homemade cloth masks.

“We are seeking donations of cloth masks that can be given to patients and visitors to wear as they enter our hospitals and clinics and to associates whose roles are non-patient facing,” Via Christi Foundation president David Alexander said in a news release. “No specific design is required, but masks with thin elastic loop ears are preferred.”

The hope is the cloth mask donations will allow Via Christi to keep surgical masks or N-95 respirators reserved for medical staff, the release said.

Nationwide, there has been a shortage of personal protective equipment and ventilators during the pandemic.

Wesley Medical Center spokesperson Dave Stewart said the hospital isn’t actively asking the community for N-95 or cloth masks, but they are still taking donations.

“We feel our current supply, in conjunction with efforts to identify additional sources of PPE (and cloth masks) for replenishment, are adequate to care for our community,” Stewart said in an email.

Wesley has been requiring everyone entering the hospital to wear a mask since March 31, Stewart said.

Mask donations to Via Christi can be dropped off at the St. Francis hospital, 929 N. St. Francis, between 9 a.m and 3 p.m. weekdays. For more information call 316-281-5157.