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TODAY'S KEY QUESTION
Why Is Maricopa County Mandating Masks Now?
The Board of Supervisors has the power to mandate masks under ARS-26-307, a state law that gives the Board of Supervisors significant powers to address public health matters. Dr. Rebecca Sunenshine explains why the mandate is important now.
Do People Need To Use Masks Indoors If They Are Physical Distancing?
Yes, masks are required indoors in public places even when there is six feet of distance. However, there are exemptions for personal spaces such as homes or vehicles.You do not need to wear a mask if your own home or car.
Maricopa County’s mask requirement applies to everyone within Maricopa County, regardless of whether your city or town has regulations. Some cities and towns have gone beyond what the County has put into place. The County’s mask requirement is based on studies that have found that mandated face coverings significantly reduce the number of infections
We’ve seen the total number of COVID-19 cases in our community rise from 23,890 last Thursday to 36,890 today. According to Public Health data, 36% of all Maricopa County COVID-19 cases have been reported in the past week.
We’re not just seeing more people getting tested; we’re seeing a higher percentage of people testing positive. This means the virus is spreading more widely in our community, which means that you should assume that if you go out in public, you could be exposed to it, or you could be exposing others. This is true even if you, or the people around you, don’t have symptoms.
If you do your part by staying home when you can, continuing to keep six feet of distance from others, and following countywide face covering requirements, we will be able to reverse the current trend.
Many Arizona schools will reopen in August, with some reopening as early as next month. Public Health recommends preparing your children now for the possible changes to come. This includes practice with masks or face shields, an understanding of physical distancing, and a basic knowledge of the virus and what’s behind all of these changes.
All information requests related to Maricopa County’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic should be directed to the Joint Information Center using the email address caomedia@maricopa.gov.
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