TULSA, Okla. — Do I have to wear a mask? That’s a question many wonder as they go out in public right now.
Erika Quinn was wondering the same thing as she and her family went to check out the cars cruising down Brookside Saturday evening. And what she saw surprised and upset her.
“We saw several people that were stopped and congregating and taking no social distancing measures and you know, kids, older people," she said.
We asked people what they thought about wearing a mask on our 2 Works for You Facebook page, and the comments were divided. Some agreeing with Erika that people should wear masks. Others said masks just create more germs and provide a false sense of security.
Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum brought up masks during last week’s press conference. He said he won’t be making them mandatory, but encourages people to wear them not only to protect themselves but also the people around them.
“The purpose of wearing a mask is to try and contain the aerosolized droplets that are coming out of your mouth while you’re speaking or sneezing or coughing and prevent them from getting to other people," Bynum said.
The Tulsa Health Department said it’s been proven that masks do help prevent the spread of coronavirus.
“Things like social distancing, wearing a mask to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets, and washing your hands, those are all ways that everyone can help slow the spread and prevent the spread from occurring," said Leanne Stephens with THD.
Meanwhile, other Facebook comments said wearing a mask should be a personal choice and to stay home if you’re scared. However, Erika hopes people will wear them so the spread of coronavirus won’t increase.
“You gotta think of other people," she said. "I mean, it’s not comfortable, it’s not fun. You have to take into consideration what other people are going through and what they have to deal with as well.”
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