Jackie Chan Implores Followers to Wear Face Masks: 'Protecting Yourself Is Protecting Your Family'

Celebrities have been urging people to follow their government’s COVID-19 guidelines, which includes social distancing, staying at home, and wearing face masks.

Now, Jackie Chan has joined the chorus. On Friday, the actor shared a video of himself, where he reminded his followers how they can safeguard themselves and others during the pandemic, on Twitter.

“I know it’s a very difficult time for everyone right now. We all face the same problem: the coronavirus,” Chan said. “It’s very important to stay at home with your family and follow the rules of your government.”

Chan also implored everyone to cover their faces in public. “If you have to go out, please remember to wear your face mask and wash your hands frequently,” the actor said. “Protecting yourself is protecting your family. Stay safe, stay strong. I too believe we have a brighter future ahead. Thank you.”

Chan’s note arrived on the day that the Centers for Disease Control issued a new face mask guidance, prescribing that Americans wear “non-medical, cloth” masks when leaving the house.

Health experts recommend Americans voluntarily wear masks made from cloth you’d find in your home. The new instruction doesn’t take the place of the government’s social distancing guidelines, which includes staying six feet apart from other people and avoiding large public groups. Surgeon General Jerome Adams advised Americans that “it’s very important that you wash your hands” before wearing your face mask.