Now that the Jalisco government has mandated compulsory use of face masks for all persons in the public sphere, lakeside residents having reason to leave their homes may be scrambling to supply themselves with cubrebocas (mouth covers).
Mexican health authorities, along with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, advise the use of face coverings to slow the spread of Covid-19 by keeping people who unknowingly carry the SARS-CoV-2 virus from transmitting it to others, especially in public settings where social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.
It is suggested that the general public not employ N95 respirators and disposable surgical masks, which are critical supplies to be reserved for healthcare workers and medical first responders.
Instead, the practical choice is a simple cloth mask that can be worn repeatedly if properly laundered after each use. Ideally this type of face covering is made with multiple layers of fabric, held on with ties or ear loops to fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face and allow for breathing without restriction.
Bear in mind that this type of mask does not protect the wearer from catching the virus. It is considered to be a complement, not a substitute for social distancing and rigorous hand-washing.
While mass-produced single and multiple use masks seem to be scarce on the shelves of Chapala area drug store and supermarket chains, they may be in stock at some small independently operated neighborhood pharmacies.
In addition, a number of local clothing workshops, seamstresses and crafters have kicked-started production of reusable cloth masks, available in diverse designs and at varied prices.
The Guadalajara Reporter has compiled a listing of local mask sources that are now advertising on social media:
Bambu Warrior: Offering high-end masks made with three layers of fabric with an activated carbon filter for maximum protection, available in varied colors and styles. Priced at 150 pesos each; family packs of 10 on special this week for 1,000 pesos. A percentage of profits goes to providing free masks to healthcare workers and Mexican residents who have lost their jobs. Latest information posted at facebook.com/bambuwarriors/. Place orders at https://deborahkruger.com/bambu-warriors/.
Oh Shirt: Resistant double-layer cloth masks in assorted colors and designs, washable for reuse, produced by Chapala uniform supply company, 25 pesos each. Sold from store at Zaragoza 379, Chapala near the Capilla del Carmen, open 4:30-8:30 p.m. Call 376-765-5317 or message through Facebook.
Desión: Designer masks made of 100-percent cotton manta, available in dark and light colors, men’s and women’s sizes, decorated with customized hand-embroidery, priced at 70 to 100 pesos depending on design work. Three-to-five day turn-over time for pick up at Ajijic store or home delivery by request. See samples at facebook.com/desion.mx. Information in English at Cell. 461-593-3612.
Sweet Cotton: Hand crocheted masks in original designs, including an adorable line for kids going for 50 to 70 pesos each. Made of 100% cotton, triple layers, hypoallergenic and washable. View samples at facebook.com/SweetCott. To order contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 332-552-1206.
MartinaMartina: Reinforced cloth masks, washable in varied styles, hand-made by proprietor of Ajijic’s Mexy Co (now closed for business), priced at 40 pesos each. Order by inbox at facebook.com/martina.bustamante.716.
Ignacia Romero: Made-to-order cloth masks in different styles for adults and children, 35 pesos each. Or take your own fabric for custom-made models. Place orders by phone to 376-766-5372.
María Isabel Ramos: Double layer reusable cloth masks, varied fabrics and designs, hand-made in Ajijic, in high demand at 20 pesos each. Advertised at facebook.com/mariaisabel.ramos.733. Contact 333-457-1393.
Useful resources
An excellent article at nytimes.com/interactive/2020/health/coronavirus-best-face-masks.html gives an overview of different types of masks and recommendations for use, with links to other NYT coverage on the subject.
Go to cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html for clear how-to guideline on the use and care of reusable face coverings, as well as do-it-yourself tutorials on making sewn or no-sewing models.