BERNARDSTON — The Board of Health voted unanimously Thursday to rescind the mask mandate that has been in place since December, effective immediately.
The change comes following a decrease in COVID-19 cases in town and regionally. According to Board of Health Co-Chair Barbara Killeen, there were three reported cases in Bernardston in the week from Feb. 14 to Feb. 20, and one case from Feb. 21 to Feb. 27. There are currently zero active reported cases.
“We had about 20 at the highest, probably in late January,” she said, noting that the statistics don’t include those who test positive using at-home tests. “It’s falling off really, really quickly.”
Should cases rise again, Killeen said the board will consider reinstituting a mask mandate, which applies to all indoor public spaces, including businesses and town-owned buildings.
“At this point in time, we felt that things are looking pretty good,” Killeen said. “The numbers are very low and going down. So we feel people can make their own choices at this time.”
She noted residents should still take precautions, especially if they are in a crowded indoor setting and can’t practice social distancing.
“Overall, we really appreciate everybody doing the best that they can for their neighbors and themselves,” Killeen added. “It gives us a really good feeling that people are listening to the science and following along.”
Reach Shelby Ashline at 413-772-0261, ext. 270 or sashline@recorder.com.