Where to find accessible health information

• Minnesota Department of Health YouTube channel (videos are captioned)
• Minnesota Department of Health ASL Video playlist 
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention YouTube channel (videos are captioned)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention American Sign Language Video playlist 
• Gallaudet University Center for Deaf Health Equity information in ASL
• Keystone Interpreting Solutions (KIS) received a grant from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) to develop ASL videos about COVID-19. You can access all the videos from this grant on KIS' website

What to do when masks are required

There are ways to make communication easier when wearing masks. 

• Wear a clear mask, if possible. Here are a few manufacturers of clear masks. You can also find online directions for making them yourself.
  • BendShape Mask
  • ClearMask
  • SafeNClear The Communicator mask
  • School Health Mask with Clear Mouth Insert
  • Directions for making your own mask with a clear window
• Point to objects, posters or signs with words that clarify what you are saying. For example, if you are asking someone to sign for their purchase, you might point to the card reader or the receipt.
• Write notes with a notebook and pen (or pencil), whiteboard and dry-erase marker, apps on your smartphone or an electronic writing tablet. 
• Use speech-to-text apps on your smartphone or mobile device.
• Arrange for real-time captioning.
• Arrange for a sign language interpreter.

Here are some handy tips for Communicating with people who are deaf or hard of hearing.