Wearing masks now mandatory in Michigan to reduce spread of Covid-19
by Joan Tucker
Governor Whitmer is now mandating that all Michigan residents wear a mask when going to indoor public spaces – particularly grocery stores, pharmacies, hardware stores, hair salons, restaurants, and medical appointments. If social distancing is not possible when outdoors, wearing a mask is also mandatory. Not wearing a mask will put you at risk for a $500 fine. Good hand washing, before and after visiting a public space, will also help reduce the spread of COVID-19.
On July 8, Michigan went from moderate to high risk. This change in status is attributed to an increasing infection rate of 1.14, which means 100 people will spread COVID to 114 people, or 100,000 to 114,000 people. The previous rate of infection was 0.85, then 0.88, and now 1.14. With the recent Fourth of July holiday, the spread rate is predicted to climb, as many large groups gathered without practicing social distancing or wearing masks. As of July 13, we have 69,722 COVID cases with 6,075 deaths since the beginning of this pandemic..
Large gatherings have clearly shown to increase the spread as reflected in the news of bar/restaurant re-openings and people anxious to socialize and relax in areas highly populated with people.
Even outdoor gatherings can spread COVID-19. One infected person—even with no symptoms—talking loudly, laughing, or singing, can spread this virus via droplets that can travel 6 to 8 feet. Without protection, these droplets may be inhaled through the nose and mouth.
Yes, people are afraid to go out, but if you wear a mask, limit the size of gatherings you attend, and practice social distance, you can still enjoy activities like patronizing local businesses, going to the Farmers Market, walking with a friend, or riding a bike on trails and roads when they are not busy or crowded.
Currently, young adults between the ages of 25 and 34 are contracting COVID at a higher rate. While they might not get sick enough to require hospitalization, they can spread the virus to older family members and friends who can become extremely ill and die. As we all know, people in this age group are very mobile and social, putting them at greater exposure. Fortunately, many younger adults have been listening to the statistics and science and are taking action to do their part.
To keep our small businesses open and prevent the spread of COVID-19, we all need to wear masks, social distance, and limit our trips away from our homes. If you have symptoms of COVID (fever, loss of smell and/or taste, cough, sore throat, fatigue) or if you have been exposed to someone who has these symptoms, call your health provider, get tested, and self- quarantine.
