Multi-layer Cloth Masks Recommended to Reduce Spread of COVID-19

• Recent studies demonstrate that a cloth mask can reduce wearers’ exposure to infectious droplets through filtration and mask mandates have an association with a healthier economy.
• Multi-layers masks made with higher thread counts were shown to limit the forward spread of droplets and block up to 50-70% of fine droplets and particles. Some materials such as polypropylene and silk may enhance effectiveness.
• Learn more about cloth mask use and how to protect yourself and your family.

Focus on Influenza

• Everyone 6 months of age and older should receive the flu vaccine annually; especially those individuals with increased risk of complications.
• Because COVID-19 and influenza will be circulating at the same time, it’s more important than ever to get your influenza vaccine this season.
• Protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community - including Montana’s essential workers - by getting an influenza vaccine and taking every day preventative actions.

SARS-CoV-2 Infections in Households

• Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID 19) within households is high, occurs quickly, and can originate from both children and adults.
•  Persons should self-isolate immedi­ately at the onset of COVID-like symptoms, at the time of testing as a result of a high risk exposure, or at time of a positive test result, whichever comes first.
•  Prompt adoption of disease control measures, including self-isolating at home, appropri­ate self-quarantine of household contacts, and all household members wearing a mask in shared spaces, can reduce the probability of household transmission.

National Diabetes Awareness Month

• If you smoke, you are 30-40% more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than someone who doesn’t smoke, and if you have diabetes smoking can lead to increased health complications.
• Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your overall health especially if you have diabetes.  The sooner you quit the better your overall health.
• Learn more about strategies to help aid in smoking cessation and support resources available across Montana.

Blood Pressure Awareness and Monitoring

• Hypertension (high blood pressure), kills approximately 1,300 Americans per day and is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
• Hypertension is known as the “silent killer” because most of the time hypertension has no symptoms; many Montanans unknowingly have hypertension and might need prescribed medication.
• Keep your blood pressure controlled. Know and monitor your blood pressure numbers, and take key steps to protect your health.

October is Sudden Cardiac Awareness Month

• Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) usually results from an electrical disturbance in the heart and is a medical emergency.
• Communities can come together and improve survival rates from SCA with help from the Cardiac Ready Communities Program at DPHHS.
• Individuals need to know what to do in a SCA. Learn CPR and how to use an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED).

Disability and Diabetes

• Montanans with disability are two times more likely than those without disability to be diagnosed with diabetes and to have disparities in management of their diabetes.
• Montana’s Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) is partnering with the Montana Disability and Health Program to improve inclusion of participants with disabilities.
• Taking charge of your diabetes is possible for everyone; learn ways to stay healthy!