Statewide indoor mask mandate now in effect

Posted on August 30, 2021

*The new indoor mask mandate is now in effect, and includes stores, restaurants, gyms and any other indoor public spaces. (WJBC file photo*

By IIS Radio

SPRINGFIELD – Heading to the store? Make sure you bring your mask.

The new indoor mask mandate is now in effect, and includes stores, restaurants, gyms and any other indoor public spaces. It was announced last week, with Illinois Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike (eh-zee-kay) saying masks work.

As of Aug. 30, 2021, the state of Illinois has reinstated a mask mandate requiring residents 2 years and older to wear face coverings in indoor settings. While face coverings are not required outdoors, masks are encouraged in crowded outdoor settings like festivals and concerts. pic.twitter.com/6dLU81C27W

— IDPH (@IDPH) August 30, 2021

“The bottom line is masks are effective,” said Ezike. “Vaccines are effective. But until more people are vaccinated we need to take the steps to protect our health care workers, protect our hospital resources, and protect our most vulnerable.”

Gov. JB Pritzker says masking is needed to help prevent further spread of the virus, which is again straining hospital resources.

WJBC News can be reached at [email protected]

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