CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Just last week the Center for Disease Control asked that ordinary people not wear protective face masks.

Now, that’s changed and the CDC is recommending everyone wear a face mask, even if it’s homemade. U.S Surgeon General Jerome Adams says one of the main reasons is because several people who have contracted the coronavirus have been asymptomatic.

“A significant portion of individuals with coronavirus lack symptoms,” said Adams.

According to new data, the virus can spread where people are interacting in close proximity; like a grocery store or the pharmacy. Health officials believe that by wearing a mask of any type can keep individuals who have novel coronavirus and not showing symptoms from spreading the virus.

“For example, coughing, speaking, or sneezing,” said Adams.

A homemade mask can be made from a bandana, a scarf, or an old t shirt. The CDC recommends a mask have multiple layers of cloth, fit snug around your mouth and nose, and should be cleaned in the washing machine after each use.

Wearing a face mask is not a substitute for social distancing. Social distancing is still recommended for preventing the spread of COVID-19.

The U.S surgeon General added that medical-grade masks should be left for healthcare workers and medical first responders.