BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — The U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams is urging Americans to stop buying face masks as concerns grow over the global spread of coronavirus.
In a tweet sent Saturday morning, the nation's top doctor tweeted: "Seriously people- STOP BUYING MASKS!"
His tweet went on to explain that the surgical masks are "NOT effective" in preventing the general public from catching the coronavirus.
Adams linked to another tweet giving tips on the best way to protect yourself and your community from any virus.
He recommended staying home when sick, washing hands with soap and water, and getting a flu shot because "fewer flu patients = more resources for #COVID19"
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention agreed with Adams on who will really benefit from wearing a mask.
The CDC website says the only people who should be wearing surgical face masks are infected patients, caretakers, or medical workers.
Otherwise, the agency says people buying up all the masks are simply depleting the necessary resources for those who may actually need them.
(Photo: Getty Images)
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