Newsom’s post seemingly contradicts the instructions by the CDC and the WHO on how to slow the spread of COVID-19 by the use of a mask. The CDC writes “Don’t touch the mask, and, if you do, wash your hands or use hand sanitizer to disinfect​”.

In Gavin Newsom’s post, he did not make mention that when taking on and off a mask to disinfect in between uses.

The CDC also says when removing a mask “Be careful not to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth when removing and wash hands immediately after removing.”

The WHO’s website similarly says to “not use a mask that has previously been worn” and to “not touch the front of the mask while using it to avoid contamination; if you accidentally touch it, clean your hands.”

The WHO also says that before taking off a mask, you’ll need to “clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water” and to “Clean your hands after touching the mask.”