Wearing Face Mask in Sebastian… Yay or Nay?

Wearing face masks seems to be a hot topic of discussion among Sebastian residence.

So, let’s look at a few reasons why we should or shouldn’t be wearing them as part of our everyday routine.

First, and foremost, the Center for Disease Control recommends that we wear a cloth face-covering in public settings when it is difficult to social distance. These social settings include, but are not limited to grocery stores, and pharmacies.

Who should not be wearing a face mask?

The CDC does not recommend face mask for children under the age of 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or anyone who is incapacitated, unconscious, or can’t remove a face mask without help should not be wearing one.

Below are additional people who should not wear a face mask:

• People who are engaging in activities where the covering could get wet, such as swimming at a beach or in a pool. So, instead, you should practice social distancing.
• People who are engaged in high-intensity activities, such as running, are not expected to wear a mask as it could cause difficulty breathing.
• Some people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, or other sensory sensitivities may find it challenging to wear a cloth face covering.
• People who are hard of hearing, deaf, and those who care for or interact with a person who is hearing impaired. They may be unable to wear a cloth face coverings as they often rely on lipreading to communicate.

There are many instances where wearing a mask or face covering is not best for everyone. So, please be kind if not everyone is wearing a mask.

Why should I wear a mask if I feel healthy?

Even if you feel healthy, it is essential to follow the CDC guidelines as recent studies show that a large number of people are “asymptomatic” or “pre-symptomatic” and can unknowingly spread the virus to others.

“The coronavirus can spread among people who are less than 6 feet apart, whether that’s by talking to one another, coughing or sneezing,” said Dr. Aaron Hamilton of Clevland Clinic’s Quality and Patient Safety Institute department. “This holds true even if none of those people notice symptoms commonly reported with COVID-19, like fever, shortness of breath, or coughing.”

Sebastian City Council Votes on Face Mask

On Wednesday, July 1, 2020, the Sebastian City Council passed a resolution that requires all employees at businesses in Sebastian to wear face masks. The public is also encouraged to wear them.

Inevitably, only you can decide what is best for you and your family. Remember that wearing a mask helps others from contracting the virus, which could prevent your family members and friends from contracting it down the road.