Cook County to distribute 500,000 masks

Cook County officials on Thursday announced the procurement of half a million cloth masks for distribution to the county's most vulnerable residents.

"Science tells us that a mask - a simple mask - can literally save lives, as we continue the battle against COVID-19," County Board President Toni Preckwinkle said in the announcement. "If our residents are armed with masks and use them properly, we can remain healthy and keep those we come into contact with healthy as well."

The county has identified 18 communities with the greatest need using the COVID-19 Community Vulnerability Index (CCVI). This index, developed by the county's department of public health, takes into account COVID-19 rates along with factors that impact the Social Vulnerability Index, such as socioeconomic and minority status, disability, language barriers, housing type and access to transportation.

County partner organizations will begin receiving masks for distribution within the week.