For example, if you are riding on public transit where it is impossible to maintain social distancing, or walking on a busy sidewalk, you must wear a face covering like a bandana or a mask.
This is a part of the way back to our lives…
Testing for virus/and or antibodies, and covering your face with a mask is sound a public health strategy…
Less than two weeks ago, we were told masks do not matter. Now, they matter.
Plus, what constitutes a mask? What do people do with mask when they get home? Does mask get washed? Could masks cause more problems than they solve? I don’t know!
Plus, when in doubt, error on side of civil liberties!
YES–Cover up, stop the spread, and flatten the curve. This is worse than the flu, people. You can make masks out of handkerchiefs, coffee filters, shop towels, brassieres, paper towels, bandannas. Get on Youtube for directions.
so a third of voters here don’t care about their own health safety, nor others ? !
#LifeHasNoMeaning.
SMH.
- Grandson of Man - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:10 pm:
Yes, because most importantly it will save lives and prevent suffering. Yes also because the harder we fight COVID-19 today, the sooner we can begin reopening the economy.
I really, really, really want to vote yes. However, not everyone has access to a mask and some of the makeshift solutions are not effective. In the long run, I think masks are prudent for slowing the spread, but I’m not sure an order is the way to go.
I am also concerned about people getting the wrong message. A mask keeps others safe from your respiratory droplets. The mask is not a personal shield that protects a person from getting the virus. (Unless you have a properly fitted, properly maintained mask of the appropriate type that is properly donned and doffed. All of which is difficult under the best circumstances.)
All of which is to say, people need to stay at home as much as possible. And an order requiring the wearing of masks could lead to a false sense of security and people venturing out when they shouldn’t.
Regardless of whether he has the authority to, I don’t think Pritzker should mandate it. As Pot calling kettle said, not everyone has access to a mask, as silly as this may sound. And what are you going to do if you don’t have one but need to go to the grocery store - go somewhere else to buy one first?
We should be strongly advocating for people wearing them, but not mandating it.
No. Unless he is able to provide every citizen with a mask that would actually make a difference. And even then no because he does not have the authority to so. But he has really fallen a bit in love this emergency power thing, so I bet he follows the leader and does it anyway.
I see other people wearing masks but I don’t know where they get them. I checked again at a Walgreen’s and a CVS just this morning and they had none. So my husband fashioned masks for us from washcloths. He tied a string to hang around each other, that can be tightened or loosened. Thank goodness he had that talent because I don’t.
Voted no, because two thirds of people don’t know how to properly wear a face mask. Have any of you been to the grocery store lately? Fully half of them wear the mask so that it doesn’t cover their nose, only their mouth. What’s up with that? Or they wear them up on the forehead, or let it hang down like a chin strap. I don’t know what these people think they’re accomplishing here, but it isn’t protecting us from their germs. It’s a good idea in theory, but ineffective in practice
I voted yes. But issuing an executive order is one thing. Enforcement is another matter. As I am thinking this out I refer back to post yesterday where Rich stated:
but it does show you that economies shut down because of the virus (my words: not because of some executive order shutting down the economy). People essentially voted with their feet.
So I am not sure an executive order will have any effect on mask wearing. Unfortunately, the US being a hyper-individualistic society, people are either going to wear a mask, gloves, etc.for their own protection and not because they are worried about others. Any executive order is not going to go over well with the Skillicorns, Lauzen’s, Tillman’s, Eastern Bloc’s, etc.
Tried wearing a bandana to grocery shop yesterday. Kept slipping and I ended up touching my face more than if I was not wearing it, which seems like a more risky situation based on my understanding of the virus. I’d support businesses being permitted to deny entry to non-masked individuals, but a government mandate just for leaving the house feels heavy handed.
Sure..as long as lifts the shelter in place order.
- Just Another Anon - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:35 pm:
I voted no for many of the reasons stated in the comments. First, I don’t think he has the power to do so. Second, I don’t think there is sufficient availability of masks. Third, most people don’t know how to wear them right. Fourth, the purpose of wearing the mask is to protect others from yourself and is defeated if you don’t wear them right, thus making it to no purpose. If you are going to make an ultra vires executive action, subjecting the state to attorney’s fees and other fun legal liabilities, at least make it something with a meaningful, useful and concrete impact.
Yes, The virus travels in droplets expelled from infected people. They land on things that can be touched or they can be inhaled by others nearby. It is obvious that a covering will prevent some, if not most of this. This disease kills people!
I voted yes because when we are urged to do it we don’t. At least if it is an order, more people will take it seriously and get on board. Come on, pull out your winter scarves today and use them as masks! Something is better than nothing.
Yes, as long as the state can provide masks to everyone that needs one. With many people staying home, it might be easier to limit the number of passengers on trains and buses, to provide proper social distancing. Add extra buses during peak hours.
- Six Degrees of Separation - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:49 pm:
I could live with such an order, knowing that adherence to a mask order does little to protect me from others but may protect others from my potential asymptomatic spittle. I have been in contact with at least two people who tested positive for COVID, but no one wants to test me since I don’t have the symptoms almost a month later. On a side note, due to shelter in place and my job lending itself to distance working, I have not set foot on public transit in a month (which I formerly was a frequent user of) and don’t expect to for at least another.
How is it possible that that this far into a pandemic which has already claimed more than 30,000 American lives we’re still getting the denial crowd reacting to the proposition of masks as if someone said they were banning guns. People, we are all in this together. The stay at home order is likely to continue for all the reasons Rich laid out above. You need to get used to this awful situation. It sucks. I hate it. My kids hate it. My friends hate it.
Oh, and I guarantee you the governor hates it. All those commenters who think Governor Pritzker is enjoying putting restrictions on people need to have your head examined. This is an awful, awful situation. But the sooner we comply with restrictions, stop gathering in groups and start wearing masks in public, the sooner we can get back to normal.
Etsy has been my go-to for getting cloth masks. They probably don’t stop virii getting in, but they likely keep your germs from getting out. Which, of course, only works if everyone wears a mask.
I voted yes and I would get used to masks becoming a part of life for the foreseeable future. Interesting that some of the “open the economy” proponents are also opposed to masks. Seems a bit contradictory.
Voted no, because Cuomo is ever fond of government overreach when it suits him, and like JB, he ignores the rural parts of the state. One size fits all is the wrong approach.
Not only should masks be required in crowded areas, they should be required anytime outside of one’s own home/yard.
As to the effectiveness of masks: n95s are better, but everything helps. I’m getting by with dust masks and sewn cloth ones. https://europepmc.org/article/med/29140516
” Compared to masks, N95 respirators conferred superior protection against CRI (RR = 0.47; 95% CI: 0.36-0.62) and laboratory-confirmed bacterial (RR = 0.46; 95% CI: 0.34-0.62), but not viral infections or ILI. Meta-analysis of observational studies provided evidence of a protective effect of masks (OR = 0.13; 95% CI: 0.03-0.62) and respirators (OR = 0.12; 95% CI: 0.06-0.26) against severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). This systematic review and meta-analysis supports the use of respiratory protection. ”
Another study on masks: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4293989/
At this point there shouldn’t be any concern about keeping people from buying up available n95s and saving them for hospital workers - everyone needs to be wearing whatever they can, be it a balaclava, scarf, or something better, and only leaving their dwelling if necessary.
==Voted no, because Cuomo is ever fond of government overreach when it suits him, and like JB, he ignores the rural parts of the state. One size fits all is the wrong approach.==
*shaking head*
The number of people who are still clueless amazes me. I had no idea there were this many dense people until we faced the situation we are in today.
Was in a grocery store in Sherman two weeks ago with a mask on and some of the local teenagers mocked me by walking up behind me and coughing. I chalked it up to kids being kids and probably karma for some of my youthful indiscretions but the more people that take this seriously, including teenagers, the sooner we can push through this storm.
Vote yes. Like many have said I don’t think people get it. Also it helps prevent spreading if you have the virus and are asymptomatic. There should be PSAs about how to wear a mask though. I have seen people who just cover mouth (this is useless). Also need to include on how to put on and take off the mask in case there is virus on the outside fabric layer.
Voted no. Even if a good idea, mandating it on criminal penalty is not ok. (1) The Governor is out past his executive order authority already (for example, EO 2020-25 is questionable at best). (2) Too many people will not wear them properly. Poorly fitting masks invite a ton of face and mask touching, which spreads contaminants to hands and then elsewhere. Few people will follow the directive to wash after every use.
No. Illinois isn’t New York. I could see a rule for Chicago, particularly with mass transit along with cabs and Uber. It doesn’t make sense if you’re walking the dog.
==It doesn’t make sense if you’re walking the dog.==
Well, considering that New York isn’t requiring it in that sort of a case then you would have nothing to worry about if the Governor followed suit here.
yes. and it needs to be made a statewide requirement for staff at restaurant payment and food drive through windows as well as curbside pickup.
I live in Springfield; over the last couple of weeks, I’ve gotten food out about 10 times at local as well as national chains. it’s been about 50% on either masks or gloves, far less often are they doing both. come on y’all! you’re handing us our food! handling our credit cards! please! i can only hope the ones actually preparing the food are properly equipped.
I voted yes. Not only will this serve a beneficial health function, it serves as a reminder for folks to take this seriously. Another amusing benefit is that it will cause many conservative heads to explode.
- It Doesn’t Have to Be This Way - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:35 pm:
Yes. Per Daily Beast article Rich shared over weekend, a German study found that virus develops and multiplies in throat, not lungs. This occurs in pre-symptomatic cases. Implication: if you’re pre-symptomatic and cough, you’re spreading the virus airborne.
Provided additional research emerges to back up this study, a mask is a no-brainer.. as much for protecting others as you.
This ain’t about governmental overreach, it’s about saving lives.
It may be difficult to mandate since many may not have access to masks, however, I’d suggest having grocery stores and other essential businesses provide at least a surgical mask for customers who are not wearing anything. While not as effective as N-95s, they do offer better protection than fabric. Maybe IDPH or another sector of govt. can help businesses secure the surgical masks.
my sister in law made me a mask. i wash it every time i go out where there will be other people nearby. i wear my garden gloves when i’m in the grocery store, wash them too.
lots of fabric/sewn masks available on etsy.com; some folks clearly trying to make big bucks off this crisis, others are reasonable, $7-10 each including shipping.
no they’re not N-95 masks, but we need to let those be available for health care workers, first responders and others at risk.
- Not a Superstar - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:51 pm:
Voted yes because the mask is destined to protect others. Most of the objections I hear are ether rote anti-“gubmint” incantations or “I’m fine” wishful thinking. Wear a mask because you don’t know if you’re a super-spreader, or if the person on the CTA or at the post office is immuno-compromised.
- Almost the weekend - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:53 pm:
I voted no. Cuomo has gotten majority of the media love affair, but he was late to the game to have the shelter in place order compared to states such as Illinois and California. The models show both Ca and IL could have been much worse if action was taken later. Personally surprised more national media outlets have not picked up California governors daily press briefings. Pritzker has done a fine job, whatever decision he makes will be in the best interest for this state.
If you have a bandana and a couple of rubberbands, you too can have a mask capable of reducing the likelihood you may infect others. The Mrs. found out how to on the internet and that’s how I shop now(once a week).
The local Rural King was packed the other day in my small town. Half people with masks, half not. Masks are hard to find, so make your own. Simply take an extra pillow case, cut in strips, double layer it, and wear like a like a bandana. I would imagine those 400+ Smithfield workers in South Dakota who tested positive wished they had masks. There is no perfect solution right now, but a mask can slow this thing down. Our small local hospital has a couple of cases. If they hit 20 they will be as overwhelmed as the big city operations. A mask is an easy step.
- lake county democrat - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 3:19 pm:
What Tommydanger said - Surgeon General and CDC has instructions on their websites as to how to make a mask without sewing, just folding and rubberbands or hairbands. A Cambbridge study said vacuum cleaner bags were almost as good as the real thing. Kitchen towels were next but not as good (but better than a t-shirt, which in-turn was better than a number of other things).
PS - FDA has approved KN95 masks, an (if I understand it correctly) close-to N95 standard used in China, and I’m seeing more of those pop-up for sale online. Also heard of a drugstore in NW suburbs selling 3 per person/household. Of course, in times like these there could be a lot of counterfeiting going on too.
Discussion of efficacy of shop towel masks, which turn out in initial tests to block more than standard surgical mask: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QmIIrss-dc as tested by University of North Carolina.
In limited circumstances as New York implemented, yes, if for no other reason, it puts others around you at ease.
I have a question for those on here who know more about the legal system than I do.
Will it be legal to conceal and carry a firearm while wearing a mask for this purpose?
It is illegal to cover your face while carrying a firearm, unless the face covering is for protective purposes. Would a mask during these times be considered for protective purposes, and be exempt from this?
If you ask on your local social media, a lot of women who are sewing masks are happy to make you one, sometimes for free, sometimes they’ll trade you for a bottle of wine or something. Saw a bunch of people around here who were dropping fabric stashes and similar supplies with local seamstresses so they could make masks for the hospitals, and the seamstress would give the fabric donor a mask. People get to clear out their unused craft materials, seamstresses don’t have to pay for materials, hospitals get masks, and the donor gets a mask back too.
“[A]ll people MUST wear a mask or face covering in public in situations where social distancing is not possible.”
I voted yes ONLY under those conditions (public, crowded). Next you’ll have to take a poll about the definition of “in public in situations where social distancing is not possible.”
Face masks and social distancing on the buses and trains is a must.
On certain Chicago Transit Authority elevated and subway trains and subway stations there are homeless people literally living on the cars and benches.
One of the worst unintended consequences of the relatively new train cars ordered by Claypool for the Red Line primarily is that the seating is arranged so as to allow people to stretch out and sleep on the trains.
Face mask should have been recommended by the CDC from the very beginning of this and many more lives would have been saved. They should have been required in all businesses from the beginning as well. Face mask should have been required on all airplanes and mass transit, cabs and Uber.
A mask requirement would be less intrusive than the quarantine rules some other countries are using,which are must stricter than the rules in Illinois and other states, In other countries, people without essential worker permits are not allowed outside their property except two hours a day to go to the grocery store, pharmacy or bank. Alcohol sales have been banned in several countries. Violators get arrested.
- Groundhog Day - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:02 pm:
I vote yes because folks are simply not getting it. Since it hasn’t been required, most think it is for someone else.
- Loop Lady - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:05 pm:
This is a part of the way back to our lives…
Testing for virus/and or antibodies, and covering your face with a mask is sound a public health strategy…
- Cuban Pilot - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:06 pm:
I voted No.
Less than two weeks ago, we were told masks do not matter. Now, they matter.
Plus, what constitutes a mask? What do people do with mask when they get home? Does mask get washed? Could masks cause more problems than they solve? I don’t know!
Plus, when in doubt, error on side of civil liberties!
- revvedup - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:07 pm:
YES–Cover up, stop the spread, and flatten the curve. This is worse than the flu, people. You can make masks out of handkerchiefs, coffee filters, shop towels, brassieres, paper towels, bandannas. Get on Youtube for directions.
- bogey golfer - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:09 pm:
Appropriate in urban areas. Just clarify “busy” sidewalk.
- sal-says - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:10 pm:
so a third of voters here don’t care about their own health safety, nor others ? !
#LifeHasNoMeaning.
SMH.
- Grandson of Man - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:10 pm:
Yes, because most importantly it will save lives and prevent suffering. Yes also because the harder we fight COVID-19 today, the sooner we can begin reopening the economy.
- Huh? - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:11 pm:
Yes. It avoids the do as I say, not as I do hypocrisy.
- Pot calling kettle - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:12 pm:
I really, really, really want to vote yes. However, not everyone has access to a mask and some of the makeshift solutions are not effective. In the long run, I think masks are prudent for slowing the spread, but I’m not sure an order is the way to go.
I am also concerned about people getting the wrong message. A mask keeps others safe from your respiratory droplets. The mask is not a personal shield that protects a person from getting the virus. (Unless you have a properly fitted, properly maintained mask of the appropriate type that is properly donned and doffed. All of which is difficult under the best circumstances.)
All of which is to say, people need to stay at home as much as possible. And an order requiring the wearing of masks could lead to a false sense of security and people venturing out when they shouldn’t.
- Lucky Pierre - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:13 pm:
Of course and they can start with their own press conferences ASAP
- Paul S - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:15 pm:
Why ask? Gov Pritzker has shown that he follows NY and CA in these decisions. He will already follow suit even though our numbers are flattening.
- Token Conservative - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:17 pm:
Voted no, because I don’t know that the Governor of Illinois has the emergency power to do that.
- Techie - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:19 pm:
Regardless of whether he has the authority to, I don’t think Pritzker should mandate it. As Pot calling kettle said, not everyone has access to a mask, as silly as this may sound. And what are you going to do if you don’t have one but need to go to the grocery store - go somewhere else to buy one first?
We should be strongly advocating for people wearing them, but not mandating it.
- Just Me 2 - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:20 pm:
I’m in favor of the Mayor issuing it, but not statewide.
- Nova - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:21 pm:
Yes, because otherwise many will not take this precaution.
- MakePoliticsCoolAgain - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:21 pm:
Voted yes. We all have to do our part.
-Now, they matter.-
COVID-19 is called a “novel” virus because there are still so many unknowns. Guidance changes based upon new research.
- Captain Obvious - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:29 pm:
No. Unless he is able to provide every citizen with a mask that would actually make a difference. And even then no because he does not have the authority to so. But he has really fallen a bit in love this emergency power thing, so I bet he follows the leader and does it anyway.
- Christopher - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:29 pm:
I see other people wearing masks but I don’t know where they get them. I checked again at a Walgreen’s and a CVS just this morning and they had none. So my husband fashioned masks for us from washcloths. He tied a string to hang around each other, that can be tightened or loosened. Thank goodness he had that talent because I don’t.
- Lester Holt’s Mustache - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:30 pm:
Voted no, because two thirds of people don’t know how to properly wear a face mask. Have any of you been to the grocery store lately? Fully half of them wear the mask so that it doesn’t cover their nose, only their mouth. What’s up with that? Or they wear them up on the forehead, or let it hang down like a chin strap. I don’t know what these people think they’re accomplishing here, but it isn’t protecting us from their germs. It’s a good idea in theory, but ineffective in practice
- Big Jer - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:31 pm:
I voted yes. But issuing an executive order is one thing. Enforcement is another matter. As I am thinking this out I refer back to post yesterday where Rich stated:
but it does show you that economies shut down because of the virus (my words: not because of some executive order shutting down the economy). People essentially voted with their feet.
So I am not sure an executive order will have any effect on mask wearing. Unfortunately, the US being a hyper-individualistic society, people are either going to wear a mask, gloves, etc.for their own protection and not because they are worried about others. Any executive order is not going to go over well with the Skillicorns, Lauzen’s, Tillman’s, Eastern Bloc’s, etc.
- Sterling - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:32 pm:
Tried wearing a bandana to grocery shop yesterday. Kept slipping and I ended up touching my face more than if I was not wearing it, which seems like a more risky situation based on my understanding of the virus. I’d support businesses being permitted to deny entry to non-masked individuals, but a government mandate just for leaving the house feels heavy handed.
- Shaa - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:35 pm:
Sure..as long as lifts the shelter in place order.
- Just Another Anon - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:35 pm:
I voted no for many of the reasons stated in the comments. First, I don’t think he has the power to do so. Second, I don’t think there is sufficient availability of masks. Third, most people don’t know how to wear them right. Fourth, the purpose of wearing the mask is to protect others from yourself and is defeated if you don’t wear them right, thus making it to no purpose. If you are going to make an ultra vires executive action, subjecting the state to attorney’s fees and other fun legal liabilities, at least make it something with a meaningful, useful and concrete impact.
- Anon - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:36 pm:
Yes, The virus travels in droplets expelled from infected people. They land on things that can be touched or they can be inhaled by others nearby. It is obvious that a covering will prevent some, if not most of this. This disease kills people!
- CapnCrunch - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:42 pm:
Those voting yes should point the rest of us to the evidence that masks, other than N95s, are effective in reducing the risk of virus transmission.
- Winderweezle - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:44 pm:
Voted yes.
Minimal effort required. Nothing to lose, a lot to gain.
- Downstate Dem - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:45 pm:
I voted yes because when we are urged to do it we don’t. At least if it is an order, more people will take it seriously and get on board. Come on, pull out your winter scarves today and use them as masks! Something is better than nothing.
- Bored HouseMom - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:45 pm:
No, leave it to the local authority. A mask leads to false security.
- Wensicia - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:47 pm:
Yes, as long as the state can provide masks to everyone that needs one. With many people staying home, it might be easier to limit the number of passengers on trains and buses, to provide proper social distancing. Add extra buses during peak hours.
- Six Degrees of Separation - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:49 pm:
I could live with such an order, knowing that adherence to a mask order does little to protect me from others but may protect others from my potential asymptomatic spittle. I have been in contact with at least two people who tested positive for COVID, but no one wants to test me since I don’t have the symptoms almost a month later. On a side note, due to shelter in place and my job lending itself to distance working, I have not set foot on public transit in a month (which I formerly was a frequent user of) and don’t expect to for at least another.
- Amalia - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 1:59 pm:
keeps things away from others AND keeps you from touching your face.
- Politix - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:02 pm:
After seeing so many elders grocery shopping without masks and not minding social distancing rules, I have to say yes.
- Southern Skeptic - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:03 pm:
How is it possible that that this far into a pandemic which has already claimed more than 30,000 American lives we’re still getting the denial crowd reacting to the proposition of masks as if someone said they were banning guns. People, we are all in this together. The stay at home order is likely to continue for all the reasons Rich laid out above. You need to get used to this awful situation. It sucks. I hate it. My kids hate it. My friends hate it.
Oh, and I guarantee you the governor hates it. All those commenters who think Governor Pritzker is enjoying putting restrictions on people need to have your head examined. This is an awful, awful situation. But the sooner we comply with restrictions, stop gathering in groups and start wearing masks in public, the sooner we can get back to normal.
- North Park - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:05 pm:
Etsy has been my go-to for getting cloth masks. They probably don’t stop virii getting in, but they likely keep your germs from getting out. Which, of course, only works if everyone wears a mask.
Voted yes.
- Pundent - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:07 pm:
I voted yes and I would get used to masks becoming a part of life for the foreseeable future. Interesting that some of the “open the economy” proponents are also opposed to masks. Seems a bit contradictory.
- NothingBurger - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:08 pm:
Voted no, because Cuomo is ever fond of government overreach when it suits him, and like JB, he ignores the rural parts of the state. One size fits all is the wrong approach.
- Master Shake - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:13 pm:
Not only should masks be required in crowded areas, they should be required anytime outside of one’s own home/yard.
As to the effectiveness of masks: n95s are better, but everything helps. I’m getting by with dust masks and sewn cloth ones.
https://europepmc.org/article/med/29140516
” Compared to masks, N95 respirators conferred superior protection against CRI (RR = 0.47; 95% CI: 0.36-0.62) and laboratory-confirmed bacterial (RR = 0.46; 95% CI: 0.34-0.62), but not viral infections or ILI. Meta-analysis of observational studies provided evidence of a protective effect of masks (OR = 0.13; 95% CI: 0.03-0.62) and respirators (OR = 0.12; 95% CI: 0.06-0.26) against severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). This systematic review and meta-analysis supports the use of respiratory protection. ”
Another study on masks: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4293989/
Here’s a study on aerosol stability: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMc2004973
There’s some question on whether covid19 truly aerosolizes but this NYTimes cites MIT researchers finding coughs travel 16 feet and that some droplets break down to travel in said aerosol form.
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/04/14/science/coronavirus-transmission-cough-6-feet-ar-ul.html
At this point there shouldn’t be any concern about keeping people from buying up available n95s and saving them for hospital workers - everyone needs to be wearing whatever they can, be it a balaclava, scarf, or something better, and only leaving their dwelling if necessary.
- Demoralized - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:16 pm:
==Voted no, because Cuomo is ever fond of government overreach when it suits him, and like JB, he ignores the rural parts of the state. One size fits all is the wrong approach.==
*shaking head*
The number of people who are still clueless amazes me. I had no idea there were this many dense people until we faced the situation we are in today.
- frisbee - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:20 pm:
Was in a grocery store in Sherman two weeks ago with a mask on and some of the local teenagers mocked me by walking up behind me and coughing. I chalked it up to kids being kids and probably karma for some of my youthful indiscretions but the more people that take this seriously, including teenagers, the sooner we can push through this storm.
- illinifan - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:21 pm:
Vote yes. Like many have said I don’t think people get it. Also it helps prevent spreading if you have the virus and are asymptomatic. There should be PSAs about how to wear a mask though. I have seen people who just cover mouth (this is useless). Also need to include on how to put on and take off the mask in case there is virus on the outside fabric layer.
- Wonk - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:23 pm:
Voted no. Even if a good idea, mandating it on criminal penalty is not ok. (1) The Governor is out past his executive order authority already (for example, EO 2020-25 is questionable at best). (2) Too many people will not wear them properly. Poorly fitting masks invite a ton of face and mask touching, which spreads contaminants to hands and then elsewhere. Few people will follow the directive to wash after every use.
- NothingBurger - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:25 pm:
Dem - not surprising you are the first person to criticize another in 37 posts…maybe I’m not the problem?
- Demoralized - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:26 pm:
I voted yes. It’s for the safety of others. Plus it’s just common courtesy right now. Don’t like it? Tough. Get over it. Times change.
- Downstate Illinois - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:27 pm:
No. Illinois isn’t New York. I could see a rule for Chicago, particularly with mass transit along with cabs and Uber. It doesn’t make sense if you’re walking the dog.
- Demoralized - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:28 pm:
Nothing
I can pretty much guarantee that you are part of the problem when you make ignorant comments like that.
- Demoralized - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:29 pm:
==It doesn’t make sense if you’re walking the dog.==
Well, considering that New York isn’t requiring it in that sort of a case then you would have nothing to worry about if the Governor followed suit here.
- WeAreAVillage - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:30 pm:
yes. and it needs to be made a statewide requirement for staff at restaurant payment and food drive through windows as well as curbside pickup.
I live in Springfield; over the last couple of weeks, I’ve gotten food out about 10 times at local as well as national chains. it’s been about 50% on either masks or gloves, far less often are they doing both. come on y’all! you’re handing us our food! handling our credit cards! please! i can only hope the ones actually preparing the food are properly equipped.
- Norseman - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:33 pm:
I voted yes. Not only will this serve a beneficial health function, it serves as a reminder for folks to take this seriously. Another amusing benefit is that it will cause many conservative heads to explode.
- It Doesn’t Have to Be This Way - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:35 pm:
Yes. Per Daily Beast article Rich shared over weekend, a German study found that virus develops and multiplies in throat, not lungs. This occurs in pre-symptomatic cases. Implication: if you’re pre-symptomatic and cough, you’re spreading the virus airborne.
Provided additional research emerges to back up this study, a mask is a no-brainer.. as much for protecting others as you.
This ain’t about governmental overreach, it’s about saving lives.
- Laura - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:38 pm:
It may be difficult to mandate since many may not have access to masks, however, I’d suggest having grocery stores and other essential businesses provide at least a surgical mask for customers who are not wearing anything. While not as effective as N-95s, they do offer better protection than fabric. Maybe IDPH or another sector of govt. can help businesses secure the surgical masks.
- WeAreAVillage - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:39 pm:
my sister in law made me a mask. i wash it every time i go out where there will be other people nearby. i wear my garden gloves when i’m in the grocery store, wash them too.
lots of fabric/sewn masks available on etsy.com; some folks clearly trying to make big bucks off this crisis, others are reasonable, $7-10 each including shipping.
no they’re not N-95 masks, but we need to let those be available for health care workers, first responders and others at risk.
- Not a Superstar - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:51 pm:
Voted yes because the mask is destined to protect others. Most of the objections I hear are ether rote anti-“gubmint” incantations or “I’m fine” wishful thinking. Wear a mask because you don’t know if you’re a super-spreader, or if the person on the CTA or at the post office is immuno-compromised.
- Almost the weekend - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:53 pm:
I voted no. Cuomo has gotten majority of the media love affair, but he was late to the game to have the shelter in place order compared to states such as Illinois and California. The models show both Ca and IL could have been much worse if action was taken later. Personally surprised more national media outlets have not picked up California governors daily press briefings. Pritzker has done a fine job, whatever decision he makes will be in the best interest for this state.
- Tommydanger - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 2:59 pm:
If you have a bandana and a couple of rubberbands, you too can have a mask capable of reducing the likelihood you may infect others. The Mrs. found out how to on the internet and that’s how I shop now(once a week).
- zatoichi - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 3:02 pm:
The local Rural King was packed the other day in my small town. Half people with masks, half not. Masks are hard to find, so make your own. Simply take an extra pillow case, cut in strips, double layer it, and wear like a like a bandana. I would imagine those 400+ Smithfield workers in South Dakota who tested positive wished they had masks. There is no perfect solution right now, but a mask can slow this thing down. Our small local hospital has a couple of cases. If they hit 20 they will be as overwhelmed as the big city operations. A mask is an easy step.
- lake county democrat - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 3:19 pm:
What Tommydanger said - Surgeon General and CDC has instructions on their websites as to how to make a mask without sewing, just folding and rubberbands or hairbands. A Cambbridge study said vacuum cleaner bags were almost as good as the real thing. Kitchen towels were next but not as good (but better than a t-shirt, which in-turn was better than a number of other things).
PS - FDA has approved KN95 masks, an (if I understand it correctly) close-to N95 standard used in China, and I’m seeing more of those pop-up for sale online. Also heard of a drugstore in NW suburbs selling 3 per person/household. Of course, in times like these there could be a lot of counterfeiting going on too.
- revvedup - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 3:23 pm:
Discussion of efficacy of shop towel masks, which turn out in initial tests to block more than standard surgical mask: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QmIIrss-dc as tested by University of North Carolina.
- SOIL M - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 3:45 pm:
In limited circumstances as New York implemented, yes, if for no other reason, it puts others around you at ease.
I have a question for those on here who know more about the legal system than I do.
Will it be legal to conceal and carry a firearm while wearing a mask for this purpose?
It is illegal to cover your face while carrying a firearm, unless the face covering is for protective purposes. Would a mask during these times be considered for protective purposes, and be exempt from this?
- Suburban Mom - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 3:55 pm:
If you ask on your local social media, a lot of women who are sewing masks are happy to make you one, sometimes for free, sometimes they’ll trade you for a bottle of wine or something. Saw a bunch of people around here who were dropping fabric stashes and similar supplies with local seamstresses so they could make masks for the hospitals, and the seamstress would give the fabric donor a mask. People get to clear out their unused craft materials, seamstresses don’t have to pay for materials, hospitals get masks, and the donor gets a mask back too.
- Denise - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 4:15 pm:
What changed? We have been hearing to save them for health care workers for months.
- Wensicia - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 4:33 pm:
Glenview, Skokie and Cicero are now mandating masks, per ABC7.
- Michelle - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 4:58 pm:
“[A]ll people MUST wear a mask or face covering in public in situations where social distancing is not possible.”
I voted yes ONLY under those conditions (public, crowded). Next you’ll have to take a poll about the definition of “in public in situations where social distancing is not possible.”
- Practical Politics - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 5:55 pm:
Face masks and social distancing on the buses and trains is a must.
On certain Chicago Transit Authority elevated and subway trains and subway stations there are homeless people literally living on the cars and benches.
One of the worst unintended consequences of the relatively new train cars ordered by Claypool for the Red Line primarily is that the seating is arranged so as to allow people to stretch out and sleep on the trains.
Be safe everyone.
- Arock - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 7:02 pm:
Face mask should have been recommended by the CDC from the very beginning of this and many more lives would have been saved. They should have been required in all businesses from the beginning as well. Face mask should have been required on all airplanes and mass transit, cabs and Uber.
- anon2 - Wednesday, Apr 15, 20 @ 8:40 pm:
A mask requirement would be less intrusive than the quarantine rules some other countries are using,which are must stricter than the rules in Illinois and other states, In other countries, people without essential worker permits are not allowed outside their property except two hours a day to go to the grocery store, pharmacy or bank. Alcohol sales have been banned in several countries. Violators get arrested.
- reelpro - Thursday, Apr 16, 20 @ 8:50 am:
- SOIL M -Will it be legal to conceal and carry a firearm while wearing a mask for this purpose?
If you have a valid CCL from Illinois you can carry. As far as I know, there is nothing in the law about face coverings.