Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker signed a mandatory face cover order this week. Starting May 6, the order requires all people to cover their mouth and nose when going into public. Those under two years old or with breathing problems due to illness are exempt.
Baker said that face coverings will be a way of life in Massachusetts when the state is finally able to reopen. They are not going away any time soon.
It’s important to remember why we’re wearing face masks in public. Masks that are not N95s, which are hard to come by and reserved for essential workers on the frontlines of the pandemic, do not protect you from infection. However, it limits the spread. Data shows that a significant percentage of cases are asymptomatic. Even if you are feeling well and go out to run essential errands or for a walk outside– you could be infected and spread it to others.
Wearing a mask is a responsibility we all have to our communities.