Not that long ago, it was highly unusual to see someone wearing a face mask in public, presumably because the person had a medical condition.
That isn’t true anymore.
Face masks have become a standard article of clothing — from classic, medical-type masks to handmade creations — thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic.
On May 1, Gov. Charlie Baker issued an order that took effect five days later requiring people to wear masks or some sort of cloth face covering in public places — indoor and outdoor — when and where social distancing is not possible. (Social distancing, now a permanent expression also thanks to the pandemic, means being at least six feet away from others.)
By then, many people had started following health officials’ advice and were wearing masks and even gloves in whatever public places, such as grocery stores and other businesses, deemed essential by the state. But many others weren’t taking the precaution seriously, so the governor decided to take action.
The best info is that the coronavirus is spread mainly by people when respiratory droplets from an infected person come in contact via coughing, sneezing and talking with someone who isn’t.
Covering one’s nose and mouth shields the wearer from those contaminated droplets. (Keep in mind health officials say one can have the virus without symptoms.)
Yes, many people are self-quarantining at home, but that’s not possible for everyone. Besides, we have no clue when this pandemic is going to end. How long can people ride it out in isolation?
Plus, no vaccine is currently available to prevent COVID-19 and views are mixed when one will be available.
Wearing a mask in public is a matter of safety and common sense, especially as restrictions are being lifted on what businesses and venues can reopen.
Unfortunately that way of thinking doesn’t seem to have an effect on many people, who go without masks. We’re sure you’ve seen them on the sidewalks, outdoor settings and even in places of businesses, despite the order.
Perhaps they believe they are strong and healthy enough they won’t contract the disease. And while many who have died from COVID-19 were old and had serious health issues, they are not the only ones who have contracted the disease.
Masks have even become politicized — that being told to wear one is a violation of one’s individual freedom. So are requiring people to wear shoes inside a public building or using a seat belt while a vehicle is in motion, but these rules are in place to protect people from their own bad judgment.
Certainly, President Donald Trump would do a great deal of good if he set an example by wearing a mask. “With the masks, it is going to be really a voluntary thing,” he said. “You can do it. You don’t have to do it. I am choosing not to do it.”
Mr. President, the pandemic is not over, and it won’t be for a while. Perhaps there will be a strong resurgence in the fall during election time.
So here are our recommendations: Wash your hands a lot, stay six feet away from others while in public and wear a mask. And seek medical attention if you have symptoms.
Stay healthy, readers.