• Stimulus check money: Everything you need to know

    Prepaid Debit Cards And More: What To Know About Your Stimulus Payments

    4 Min Read

    The U.S. government has been sending stimulus checks to millions of Americans as part of trillion-dollar economic packages to deal with the disruption that the coronavirus pandemic has caused.

    To get your stimulus money, you won’t have to fill out any forms or submit anything. They have tried to make it easy.

    Stimulus Checks: Everything You Need To Know

    In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about stimulus payments.

    If the IRS doesn’t have any banking information on you, they will mail out debit cards, called Economic Impact Payment (EIP) Cards. Scroll down to learn more about these stimulus debit cards.

    The only way you won’t get a stimulus check if if you don’t have a Social Security number or you can be claimed as a dependent by someone else. Also, if you make more than $75,000, the check will begin to phase out.

    In This Article:

    How To Get Your Stimulus Check

    Many people have lost their jobs and others have lost their health because of the deadly virus, so the money is very much needed. Here is everything you need to know about the stimulus check.

    What Is A Stimulus Check?

    A stimulus check is a government payment sent to taxpayers to stimulate the economy.

    The idea behind stimulus checks is for consumerism to spark consumption and for dollars to make their way to businesses and companies.

    Stimulus checks have been used before by the U.S. government to fuel economic growth. 

    How Much Is The Stimulus Check?

    Each eligible American is generally set to receive $1,200 and $500 for each child under age 17. The money will be sent by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

    Because it’s based on your IRS filing status, most Americans will get a $1,400 stimulus payment.

    Here is what your finances need to be to get the third round of stimulus checks:

    • Married couples who make less than $150,000 qualify.
    • Head of households who make under $112,500 qualify.
    • Single individuals who make less than $75,000 qualify.

    When Is Your Stimulus Check Coming?

    Stimulus checks started to be mailed in mid-March 2021 based on a schedule conceived by the Biden Administration. Here’s how to track it.

    If your direct deposit information is not on file with the IRS and you’re waiting on a paper check, it could take up to five months, according to one report.

    Will You Get A Stimulus Check Debit Card?

    EIP card - stimulus debit card

    As many as 4 million Americans will get stimulus check debit cards, called Economic Impact Payment (EIP) Cards. These people are the ones who don’t have banking information on file with the IRS.

    That means the agency is unable to send your stimulus via direct deposit or check. Here are some things to know about your EIP card.

    • You can use your EIP card anywhere Visa debit cards are accepted, including online and in-store. 
    • You can also get cash back at the register with PIN debit purchases at participating merchants
    • If you have problems, you can call Customer Service at 1.800.240.8100 (TTY: 1.800.241.9100)

    See the EIPcard.com website created by the Treasury for more information.

    How To Avoid Stimulus Scams

    There have already been some stimulus scams to pop up. The FBI is warning people to be on the lookout for criminals who are looking to pounce on the uninformed.

    Here’s what you can be sure of:

    • You won’t have to pay a fee to get a stimulus check
    • No entity can “rush” your stimulus check, so don’t fall for it
    • The government won’t ever call you and ask you for your personal information over the phone

    Last Words

    For people looking to bounce back after losing significant income, you may have some ideas on how to spend your stimulus check. Here are some great ways to put your stimulus check to good use.

    Next: How To Track The Status Of Your Stimulus Check Money

    Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest on the coronavirus pandemic, which has the state of Georgia and the city of Atlanta under a state of emergency. More definitive advice on health, please visit CDC.gov. Here are some helpful links:

    Comments Off on Prepaid Debit Cards And More: What To Know About Your Stimulus Payments
  • How to get drive-thru testing for coronavirus in Atlanta, Georgia

    Where To Get Coronavirus Drive-Through Testing In Atlanta

    3 Min Read

    If you suspect that you may have symptoms related to coronavirus, health officials are asking you to go get tested. If you’re in Atlanta, there are now several places to get either drive-through testing or as a walk-in.

    Now that vaccinations are underway, the good news is that you can find free COVID testing throughout Atlanta and parts of Georgia. You do not have to pay for COVID testing.

    If you want to find COVID testing sites over the phone, there are three numbers you can call:

    • The Georgia Department of Public Health’s COVID-19 Hotline at 844-442-2681
    • The Fulton County Board of Health’s COVID-19 Line at 404-613-8150
    • The DeKalb Hotline at 404-294-3700 (After hours: 1-844-442-2681)

    There are three primary ways to get tested for coronavirus locally. 

    Locations: Where To Get Tested For COVID-19 In Atlanta, Georgia

    This article is going to show you the locations of COVID-19 testing sites around Atlanta. All coronavirus testing is free by federal mandate, so you don’t have to worry about being charged.

    To get tested for coronavirus, you have to register for same-day appointments at CVS.com/minuteclinic/covid-19-testing.

    Coronavirus Drive-Thru Testing Sites & Walk-In Clinics In Atlanta

    Here are some locations in Atlanta where you can get tested:

    COVID-19 Testing SiteAddress & MapDrivethru TestingDo You Need A Referral?
    Greenbriar Mall2841 Greenbriar Pkwy SW, Atlanta, GA 30331YesNo
    Aviation Cultural Center3900 Aviation Circle, Atlanta GA"YesNo
    Emory Saint Joseph's Hospital - (678) 843-7001
    5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd, Atlanta, GA 30342NoYes
    Peachtree Immediate Care - Brookhaven - (404) 814-9199 4400 Peachtree Rd NE, Brookhaven, GA 30319NoNo
    Georgia State University Blue Parking Lot521 Capitol Ave SE, Atlanta , GA 30132">YesNo
    Mercedes-Benz Stadium - Home Depot BackyardAMB Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313">
    YesNo
    Georgia State University Stadium (Turner Field)33 Gilmer St SE, Atlanta, GA 30315">YesNo
    Emory University Hospital Midtown550 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308">NoYes
    Sugar Creek Golf Course - (404) 294-37002706 Bouldercrest Rd, Atlanta, GA 30316">YesNo
    Emory University Hosptal 1364 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30322NoYes

    The state has also partnered with CVS Minuteclinics to do the tests, which are designed to take less than 30 minutes. Of course, you can expect long lines of cars.

    CVS MinuteClinic COVID-19 Testing: Where To Get Tested For Coronavirus In Atlanta, Georgia

    Where To Get Coronavirus Drive-Through Testing In Atlanta

    Another drive-thru testing site is located on the campus on Georgia Tech at 352 Peachtree Place, Atlanta, GA. 30332. Here’s the address to help you find it.

    Because it’s pollen season in Georgia, many people are experiencing coughing and sinus problems that may make them believe they have coronavirus. Here are the symptoms to look out for.

    Just to be clear, COVID-19 includes respiratory symptoms like fever, cough, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.

    In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death.

    If you think you may have become infected, here’s what you need to do.

    For information on Atlanta testing sites, you can also visit atlstrong.org/testing or call @ATL311 for more information on site locations and how to register.

    Final Thoughts

    If you have symptoms of COVID-19, remember to quarantine at home for at least 10 to 14 days. If your symptoms worsen, seek medical help immediately.

    Where To Get The COVID Vaccine In Atlanta, Georgia

    Georgia health officials have been working hard to get more doses delivered to the state. Metro Atlanta now has several places that are doing inoculations for Georgia residents.
     
    If you’re looking for the COVID-19 vaccine in Atlanta, here are the vaccination sites.
    Comments Off on Where To Get Coronavirus Drive-Through Testing In Atlanta
  • COVID vaccine in Atlanta

    Latest Developments: COVID-19 Vaccine In Atlanta

    3 Min Read

    Are you looking for information on where you can get the COVID-19 vaccine in Atlanta? We’re going to tell you everything you need to know.

    The COVID-19 vaccine is being distributed to all 50 states. Hospitals and medical facilities are the first priority of the 3 million initial doses that are rolling out.

    By year’s end, the U.S. government plans to have 300 million doses distributed across the country. They hope that by springtime 2021, the majority of Americans will have access to the vaccine.

    This article will be updated with the latest information as we learn of it.

    Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp updated the public on the vaccine rollout in Georgia, saying, “[The Georgia Department of Public Health] and our team are ready to assist in getting the vaccine out to our most vulnerable Georgians and those fighting this virus on the front lines.”

    Have COVID-19 Vaccine Vials Arrived In Atlanta?

    COVID-19 vaccine vials were shipped into Atlanta and arrived the morning of Monday, Dec. 15. FedEx is handling the shipments to Georgia’s capital city. The shipments come from a Michigan facility, which is the origin point to handle shipping logistics of distributing the vials throughout the nation.

    The vaccine vials are all freezer-packed because of their delicate nature and capacity to destabilize at room temperature.

    According to the Georgia Department of Health, the handling requirements for each vaccine product will vary from refrigerated (2° to 8° C) to frozen (-20°C) to ultra-cold (-60° to -80°C) temperatures.

    Who Will Get The Vaccine?

    You may be wondering who is eligible for the vaccine in Georgia and how it will be rolled out. This is the plan, according to the federal government’s COVID-19 immunization program, Operation Warp Speed.

    Phase One:

    • People over age 60 with health problems
    • Health care workers
    • Firefighters, EMTs and other first responders

    Phase Two:

    • Essential workers (grocery associates, jail staff, truck drivers, etc.)
    • School and child care workers
    • Anyone age 60 and older with underlying conditions

    Phase Three

    • Those aged 21 to 30
    • Moderately Exposed Industries (Hairstylists, tattoo artists, etc.)

    Phase Four

    Anyone else for whom the vaccine is recommended.

    The CDC says that the list of groups listed in each phase is by no means all-inclusive and will be revised based on developments that arise.

    What Kind Of Vaccine Has Been Shipped To Atlanta?

    Atlanta may be getting different types of vaccines, but as of this writing, the city is getting the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine, which is the first to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

    The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 is for use in people 16 years of age and older. The vaccine is only authorized for emergency use for as long as the pandemic lasts.

    Last Words

    Some vaccinations will require two doses for the patient to be inoculated. This will require that you more than likely place a reminder for the second dose due date in your smartphone calendar or a similar place.

    The Department of Public Health will use the Georgia Registry of Immunization Transactions and Services (GRITS) to collect data on COVID-19 vaccine doses administered rom health providers.

    Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest on the coronavirus pandemic, which has the state of Georgia and the city of Atlanta under a state of emergency. More definitive advice on health, please visit CDC.gov. Here are some helpful links:

    Comments Off on Latest Developments: COVID-19 Vaccine In Atlanta
  • How to beat quarantine kitchen fatigue

    5 Steps To Get Over Quarantine Cooking Fatigue

    3 Min Read

    The pantry pandemic has caused people all over the world to spend more time over their own stoves. If your’e tired of cooking day in and day out, you may have quarantine kitchen fatigue.

    This article is going to show you to get over quarantine cooking fatigue by taking advantage of some easy options you can work into your weekly routine.

    1. Order A Mealkit

    CJhick-Fil-A meal kits in Atlanta on August 27

    Nothing beats having a prepared meal. That’s one of the reasons why restaurants are so popular. But you can get one brought to you. All you have to do is heat it up.

    Here are the best mealkits that deliver dinner to your door.

    2. Do A Raw Food Night

    When we say “raw foods,” no one’s talking about uncooked meats or sushi. Raw foods — organic vegetables and fruits — are one of the healthiest options you can eat.

    If you put together a raw food night every once in a while, not only will your stomach thank you for it, but you’ll save some money.

    Want to pick up some raw foods? Here are the best farmer’s markets in Atlanta.

    3. Have A Pizza Night

    all the new Atlanta restaurants opening in 2019

    OK, every once in a while, pizza is the greatest thing you can eat at night — and the following morning. Switch up the toppings to keep things fresh.

    Looking for a top pizza spot? Here’s where you can get the best pepperoni in Atlanta.

    Order Takeout From A New Restaurant

    Best takeout food in Atlanta

    What’s the point at eating at the same restaurant over and over again? Explore Atlanta by trying a new restaurant for takeout once a week.

    Want to know where to go? Check out these new Atlanta restaurants.

    5. Fast For One Night

    Pandemic self care
    Photo credit: Cottonbro / Pexels

    If you know about cleansing, you’re already aware that giving your tummy a break does a body good. If you can fast for one night and eat breakfast the following morning, it can make a world of difference.

    If you want to know how to occupy your mind while you fast, here are some ways to just chill.

    It’s no secret that women are ruling the world. In fact Beyonce tried to tell y’all that some years ago. Today they make up the #1 entrepreneurs in 50 of the biggest cities in America. From femtech to beauty products, women have their hands on the pulse.
     
    If you want to keep abreast of the latest lifestyle news, subscribe to AtlantaFi.com’s newsletter.
    Comments Off on 5 Steps To Get Over Quarantine Cooking Fatigue
  • Pandemic self care

    How To Take Care Of Yourself In The Pandemic

    4 Min Read

    You may be having a difficult time in the coronavirus pandemic. It’s understandable because so many people are dying and there’s so much confusion.

    Self care is a billion-dollar business today, but you can follow the steps here for free with little effort to reap some big benefits.

    What Is Self-Care?

    A lot of people have different opinions on what self care is and isn’t. Self care is whatever activity, routine or recreation you do that helps you cope with the world.

    Self care involves four aspects, including our:

    • Mental Well-Being
    • Physical Well-Being
    • Emotional Well-Being
    • Spiritual Well-Being

    The key is to not let anxiety rule our lives. Let’s get into some ways to cope with it for our self care:

    Self Care: 5 Steps To Follow Every Day

    But you can take comfort in the fact that you have total control over your actions and your emotions. This article is going to show you some helpful steps you can take for self care in the COVID-19 pandemic.

    1. Take A Walk Or Jog

    One of the best ways to exercise your body is to get out and walk or job. While the workouts are similar, both carry out the purpose of exposing you to new sights and sounds and working out your body.

    Walking or jogging is self care because it allows you to incorporate exercise into your routine with minimal effort.

    2; Read A Book

    You don’t need to read a paperback book, but you do need to read something on a regular basis. Cognitive skills diminish if you’re not contributing challenging communications into your mind on the regular, perhaps daily.

    Here Are 5 Books That Make For Excellent Reading:

    3. Make Some Food

    Make food, i.e. cook something. Not only is this therapeutic, but it’s a healthy aspect of our self care.

    You can cook some great dishes that you already know or look up the latest recipe of one of your favorite dishes.

    Talk To Your Loved Ones

    Every day it’s important to connect to those who love you and are in your corner. These could be people from your past or those who are a part of your life now. Here are some ways you can communicate to them now:

    • Talk
    • Call
    • Text
    • Write A Letter

    4. Take A Road Trip

    Looking for an in-state excursion? Georgia has many oases across the red clay. Here are some things you can do on a weekend:

    5. Get Proper Rest

    One of the most underrated keys to proper self care is adequate rest. If you can’t get eight hours of sleep a night, it’s not like you can’t function, but you will find that your energy is not where it should be.

    It’s so important to get some rest that it may determine your mental state through the week. It’s good to go to sleep before midnight for optimum rest, but of course that depends on your lifestyle.

    Last Words

    If your’e serious about self care, you need to gravitate toward positivity and things that make you happy. This could be a comedy club or a top TV show. Whatever it is, remember to always take time for you.

    Try to go to sleep at a decent hour so that you can start the next day feeling great.

    It’s no secret that women are ruling the world. In fact Beyonce tried to tell y’all that some years ago. Today they make up the #1 entrepreneurs in 50 of the biggest cities in America. From femtech to beauty products, women have their hands on the pulse.
     
    If you want to keep abreast of the latest lifestyle news, subscribe to AtlantaFi.com’s newsletter.
    Comments Off on How To Take Care Of Yourself In The Pandemic
  • Relaxing videos to watch at home

    5 Relaxing Virtual Landscapes To Play In Your Home Office

    2 Min Read

    If you’re working from home due to the coronavirus pandemic, things can get a bit boring around the house. While you don’t want to liven things up too much with extra noise, some relaxing sounds and images can do wonders while you work.

    The key to a relaxing video is two-fold:

    • You don’t want images, videos to be so mesmerizing that you can’t concentrate on your work.
    • You don’t want the videos or music accompanying it to be so loud that you can’t focus.

    Here are 10 relaxing videos to play in your home office.

    1. Relaxing Tropical Island

    2. Birds Singing By The Lake

    3. Beautiful Scenes Of Nature

    4. Relaxing Farm Village

    5. Satisfying Rain And Thunder

    6. Relaxing City Park

    7. Relaxing Nature Preserve

    8. Gentle Rain And Native American Flutes

    9. Relaxing Sounds And Underwater Scenes

    10. Dance Of Life: Relaxing Music

    Bonus (For Star Wars Fans)

    It’s no secret that women are ruling the world. In fact Beyonce tried to tell y’all that some years ago. Today they make up the #1 entrepreneurs in 50 of the biggest cities in America. From femtech to beauty products, women have their hands on the pulse.

     
    If you want to keep abreast of the latest lifestyle news, subscribe to AtlantaFi.com’s newsletter.
    Comments Off on 5 Relaxing Virtual Landscapes To Play In Your Home Office
  • 5 Bible Verses That Soothe The Soul

    5 Bible Verses That Will Soothe Your Weary Soul

    2 Min Read

    If you need a pick me up, the Bible is without question the most inspiring book ever written. Not only does it contain tons of encouraging Scriptures but it is the Word of God.

    If you want to feel close to Him and motivate yourself at the same time, here are some of the most encouraging Scriptures in the Bible.

    5 Encouraging Bible Verses You Need To Read Right Now

    Let’s start off with several translations so you can get different flavors.

    Romans 8:31–32

    “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?”New International Version

    Psalms 103:14

    “He certainly knows what we are made of. He bears in mind that we are dust.” — God’s World Translation

    1 Corinthians 10:12–14

    “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” — King James Version

    Psalms 34:18

    “Jehovah is close to the brokenhearted; He saves those who are crushed in spirit.”New World Translation

    Psalms 23:1-4

    “The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. 2. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3. He restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.4. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,  I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”New International Version

    Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest on the coronavirus pandemic, which has the state of Georgia and the city of Atlanta under a state of emergency. More definitive advice on health, please visit CDC.gov. Here are some helpful links:

    Comments Off on 5 Bible Verses That Will Soothe Your Weary Soul
  • best virtual things to do in Atlanta

    Ultimate List: Best Indoor Things To Do In Atlanta

    4 Min Read

    No matter if you live in a big city like Atlanta or a smaller one in a rural area, social distancing, stay-at-home orders and self isolating are all parts of our lives now. You may be wondering what are some of the best indoor things to do in Atlanta.

    We’re going to explore some fun things you can do inside your home as you try to stay safe and keep others out of harm’s way.

    1. Watch The PandaCam

    Watch the pandacam at the Atlanta Zoo

    The Atlanta Zoo is the only place in the world where you can see twin giant pandas do their thing.  Mei Lun and Mei Huan have thrilled tourists and locals alike for a number of years.

    Want to see the pandas in action? Take a look at the PandaCam!

    2. Look In On A Cooking Class Or Virtual Happy Hour

    A number of Atlanta chefs are hosting virtual cooking classes on Youtube and other video platforms.

    3. Make A Quarantine Drink

    What To Drink Right Now While You're Self-Isolating
    What To Drink Right Now While You’re Self-Isolating

    You already know that one of the favorite pasttimes of Atlantans is to concoct creative libations, especially of the fruity variety. 

    Here are some of the best dranky dranks you can make as part of your #quarantinedrink session. Quarantine Drinks: What To Make While Self-Isolating

    4. Make A Face Covering

    10 Hacks On How To Make A Mask (Video)

    Sure, you can buy a mask or face covering, but you can save money if you make one. There are ways to do it with and without a sewing, so there’s that.

    From cloth to underwear, here’s how to make a homemade face covering.

    5. Order Some Takeout

    Best takeout food in Atlanta

    Atlanta’s restaurants are doing what they can to fulfill takeout orders via online and phone. Hungry for some of your favorite restaurants. Order to go.

    You can also order alcohol with your takeout food.

    6. Watch FREE Movies

    Watch the Players Club on Netflix

    Cozy up with your favorite blanket, get you some popcorn (optional) watch some of your favorite movies for free. Make an evening of it. Here are some movie options:

    7. Relax At Home

    Lifestyle and wellness in Atlanta

    Few people actually know how to relax, like, chill out. When we say relax, we mean, like go sit (or lie) down somewhere. This is a great way to meditate on your purpose and reconnect. Here are some tips on taking it easy.

    8, Work Out At Home

    best home gym for cheap
    Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels

    With many gyms still closed, you don’t have to let your body go down. For under $60 you could invest in a home gym. Here’s everything you need.

    9. Listen To Some Atlanta Music

    Listen to Atlanta Music

    Atlanta has some of the greatest music artists of the last quarter century. No matter if it’s Youtube or Spotify or Apple Music, get into some:

    10. Get In Shape At Home

    How to get a banging body in 2020
    Photo by Obi Onyeador on Unsplash

    Remember the old adage ‘look good, feel good?” Well, it’s true! There is a direct correlation between what you see in the mirror and your mental / emotional well-being.

    Even without weights, you can get in shape pretty quickly at home. Here are some tips on things you can do around the house that can help your waistline.

    Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest on the coronavirus pandemic, which has the state of Georgia and the city of Atlanta under a state of emergency. More definitive advice on health, please visit CDC.gov. Here are some helpful links:

    Comments Off on Ultimate List: Best Indoor Things To Do In Atlanta
  • Here's The Best Time To Online Shop For Groceries

    Can’t Get A Slot? Here’s The Best Time To Online Shop For Groceries

    2 Min Read

    Because of the ongoing health crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic, online grocery sales have exploded. Like many people, you may not be able to get a shopping slot on apps like Instacart, Shipt or Amazon.

    The reason for this is because so many people are using the apps that the online grocers are overwhelmed. That’s why they’ve gone on a hiring spree right now. But here’s how you can get you some groceries.

    Best Time To Grocery Shop On Instacart, Shipt, Amazon, Etc.

    I ran across this hack by watching for slots to open on Instacart and Amazon (I have Amazon Fresh). Here’s what you need to do: Log on early in the morning, anytime from 6 to 7 a.m.

    During that time period, you’ll see that there may be time slots available for later in the day. 

    It’s unlikely that the 1-hour grocery delivery will be available, but the 2-hour grocery delivery may be available. If not, the evening time slot should definitely be there.

    How To Reserve A Grocery Delivery Slot Online

    The thing is, you may have to do all your shopping first before you can see what time slots are available.

    To test the market, you can walk through the steps of buying a single item and see what time slots are available. When you see that a delivery slot is open, go ahead and reserve it and add to your order.

    If this strategy works for you, please let me know in the comments!


    It’s no secret that women are ruling the world. In fact Beyonce tried to tell y’all that some years ago. Today they make up the #1 entrepreneurs in 50 of the biggest cities in America. From femtech to beauty products, women have their hands on the pulse.
     
    If you want to keep abreast of the latest lifestyle news, subscribe to AtlantaFi.com’s newsletter.
    Comments Off on Can’t Get A Slot? Here’s The Best Time To Online Shop For Groceries
  • How To Make A Mask And Face Cover: Easy Steps To Follow

    How To Make A Mask And Face Cover: Easy Steps To Follow

    5 Min Read

    With the continued spread of the coronavirus pandemic, public health officials are recommending that the American public wear respiratory masks.

    This article is going to show you how to make a mask from how-to videos recommended by nurses, textile pros and manufacturing companies.

    In This Article:

    Before we get started, let’s look explicitly at what the CDC recommends when it comes to cloth masks. In its guidance titled “Recommendations Regarding the Use of Cloth Face Coverings,” the agency says this:

    In light of this new evidence [asymptomatic transmission], CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.

    The cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators.  Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders, as recommended by current CDC guidance.

    Now that we’ve brushed up on the guidance, here’s what to know about mask effectiveness. This graphic shows the effectiveness of a surgical, N95 and FFP (filter face piece) as it relates to contaminants.

    Varsoy Healthcare Mask Regulation: Surgical, N95 And FFP1 Mask

    Varsoy Healthcare Mask Regulation: Surgical, N95 And FFP1 Mask

     

    Basically, what it’s showing is that not all masks are equally effective in protecting you from the novel coronavirus Sars-CoV-2 & Covid-19. Now let’s get into the scientific data to back it up:

    • N95 Respirators: These are touted as providing 95% protection against viruses but maybe less, according to this study from the National Center for Biotechnology Information.
    • Cloth Masks:  The DIY nature of these means that not all cloth masks are created equal. However, a  preliminary study published in ACS Nano by University of Chicago and Argonne National Laboratory researchers indicate that homemade face masks made out of a combination of tight cotton and silk or polyester-spandex chiffon is very effective in filtering out aerosols.
    • Surgical Masks: Most used in a health care setting, these are made out of polypropylene and are 56% effective against viral droplets, according to research published in the British Medical Journal.
    • No Mask: You’re on your own with this one. Hope you’re not a carrier.

    How To Make A Mask In 4 Easy Steps

    • Lay a piece of cloth on a table
    • Fold it in a large rectangle no more than 18 inches long
    • Wrap two rubberband on each end and position it about 3 inches in
    • Fold the sides one time toward the middle

    And that’s how you make a face covering!

    The CDC has issued guidance on how to protect yourself from COVID-19 by wearing a face cover. Here is what you need to know:

    How To Make A Face Cover

    • fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
    • be secured with ties or ear loops
    • include multiple layers of fabric
    • allow for breathing without restriction
    • be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape

    The agency says when you remove a face covering, it’s important not to touch your hands, eyes or face.

    You can easily wash a face covering in the washing machine, which is sufficient to kill any viruses or bacteria.

    If you want to sew a face cover, here are the instructions:

    Materials Needed To Sew A Face Covering

    • Two 10”x6” rectangles of cotton fabric
    • Two 6” pieces of elastic (or rubber bands, string, cloth strips, or hair ties)
    • Needle and thread (or bobby pin)
    • Scissors
    • Sewing machine

    Tutorial: How to Sew A Face Covering

     1. Cut out two 10-by-6-inch rectangles of cotton fabric. Use tightly woven cotton, such as quilting fabric or cotton sheets

    How to make a mask to prevent COVID-19

    2. Fold over the long sides ¼ inch and hem. Then fold the double layer of fabric over ½ inch along the short sides and stitch down.

    How to make a mask to prevent COVID-19

    3. Run a 6-inch length of 1/8-inch wide elastic through the wider hem on each side of the mask. These will be the ear loops. Use a large needle or a bobby pin to thread it through. Tie the ends tight.
    Don’t have elastic? Use hair ties or elastic head bands.

    How to make a mask to prevent COVID-19

    4. Gently pull on the elastic so that the knots are tucked inside the hem. Gather the sides of the mask on the elastic and adjust so the mask fits your face. Then securely stitch the elastic in place to keep it from slipping.

    How to make a mask to prevent COVID-19

    No-Sew Method: How To Make A Face Cover

    how to make a face cover to stop coronavirus

    No-Sew Method: Bandana Face Cover

    Materials

    • Bandana (or square cotton cloth approximately 20”x20”)
    • Coffee filter
    • Rubber bands (or hair ties)
    • Scissors (if you are cutting your own cloth)

    Tutorial

    how to make a face cover out of a banana - no sew method

    Examples: How To Make Homemade Face Covers

    Many people are also sharing how to make homemade face covers. Journalist Soledad O’Brien asked her Twitter followers for mask ideas. Here are a few that seem to work for the basic needs:

    How To Make A Face Cover From Underwear

    How To Make A Face Mask Out Of A Shirt

    Do you have any mask ideas? Let us know in the comments!

    Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest on the coronavirus pandemic, which has the state of Georgia and the city of Atlanta under a state of emergency. More definitive advice on health, please visit CDC.gov. Here are some helpful links:

     

     

    Comments Off on How To Make A Mask And Face Cover: Easy Steps To Follow