Mason Urges Residents to Follow Face Covering Guidance

GURNEE, Ill. – With face coverings now required in certain public spaces under Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s most recent stay-at-home order, state Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee, is reminding residents of the importance of abiding by the new guidelines.

“Cloth face coverings don’t shield a person from coming into contact with the COVID-19 virus if it’s already in the air, but they do help prevent the virus from escaping an infected person’s nose or mouth in the first place,” Mason said. “Since we know a person can have COVID-19 but not show any symptoms, it’s essential that everyone wears a face covering in all settings where maintaining 6 feet of distance between yourself and others isn’t possible.”

Mason is advising residents to create their own snugly fitting face coverings by using household materials like t-shirts, bandanas or scarves. Mason is also reminding residents that medical and surgical masks should still be reserved for health care workers and first responders.

“Illinoisans have done a remarkable job at following previously established social distancing policies, and we’ve seen those efforts have a positive impact on our hospitalization and infection rates,” said Mason. “As we head into another month of staying at home, it’s critical that we all follow state directives to wear a face covering when necessary so we can help save lives and bring the swiftest possible end to this crisis.”

For more information on COVID-19 face coverings, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html.