Over the last few days, I have gotten a lot of questions over shutdowns and face masks. I would like to give you my thoughts.
The last shutdown was bad for our community, and another one would be terrible. Although shutting down the economy is not the answer, neither is ignoring what we know has worked in the response to COVID-19.
How do we avoid a shut down? By keeping hospitalization rates down and slowing down the infection rate. We are currently seeing an increase in hospitalizations. Do we need to panic? No, we have space right now, but if we continue on this same trend, we will have some serious concerns by the end of July. Unfortunately, many COVID-19 patients are still needing a hospital bed in order to survive, and it is imperative that there is a place for not only them to be treated, but also for our loved ones who may need medical attention in an emergency situation.
Since March, we have heard so much conflicting information regarding COVID-19, enough to make all of our heads spin. But what we know for sure is that the curve was flattened when we increased hygiene and observed social distancing. As we begin to return to normal life, I think there will be situations such as get-togethers with friends and family, celebrations, and large gatherings that will have the potential to threaten another shutdown. It is imperative that we use good common sense to avoid it.
Do masks work? Not 100%, but we aren’t looking for perfection. We are looking for ways to supplement handwashing and social distancing, which is not always possible when you are out in the community. The virus escapes through the nose and mouth. Covering your nose and mouth is the best way to keep the virus out of the air and away from the person that is less than six feet from you. If you think you don’t need to wear a mask because you aren’t contagious, think again. It is now understood that many, if not most COVID patients didn’t know they were positive and contagious.
One of the best things about San Saba County is that we always have our neighbor’s back. No matter what is going on, we rise to the occasion and do what is right for each other. We don’t have to be told. Our churches and businesses need to be open and operating normally. It is a fact that when we are wearing a face covering, there is less of a chance that COVID will spread. Primarily, we must protect older individuals and those who are vulnerable because of health complications. They might be browsing the shelves beside you, or in a meeting with you.
Most masks protect those around you more than they do you. So, if you are forced closer than six feet from another individual and you are without a mask, you are not being macho; you probably just don’t care about his or her health. I don’t believe that the mask is an indication of your political beliefs or how brave you are. It is just common sense to wear one in public, unless you have asthma or another breathing issue. It will allow us to continue on a path to normality.
I am not mandating, but I am asking you to put on a mask when you are in the community and there is even a chance that you will not be able to maintain the necessary six-foot social distancing. Please, Stay Calm, Stay Healthy.