The physicians and nurses who comprise the Missouri State Medical Association (MSMA) and the Missouri Nurses Association (MONA) say they have joined together to urge Missouri’s Gov. Mike Parson to implement a statewide masking requirement for indoor spaces and for crowded outdoor spaces where social distancing is difficult.
The organizations say that over the past two weeks, Missouri has experienced the highest surge in COVID-19 cases since the pandemic began. Since a person may be infected with COVID-19 but still be asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic, it is imperative that all people wear masks in public places in order to protect their families, friends, and fellow citizens, the organizations believe.
“It has become increasingly clear that COVID-19 is spread mainly by someone inhaling the virus expelled by another person and wearing a mask is the best way to slow the spread. As numbers continue to rise in Missouri, we must issue statewide policy to protect Missouri’s citizens and preserve our health care workforce,” said Terry Reese, MSN, RN, FNP-BC; President, MONA
The CDC recommends that all people age two and older wear face masks in public settings when around people outside of their household, especially when social distancing is difficult. Many studies have shown that mask use decreases effective transmission rate of COVID-19 by blocking some infectious contacts.
“Preventing the spread of COVID-19 is necessary for continued economic growth, opening of schools in the fall, participation in sports, and an increased sense of community cooperation. These should be our goals and wearing a mask so as not to infect others is a commonsense way to achieve them,” said George Hruza, MD, MBA, FAAD; President, MSMA.
“The physicians and nurses of Missouri compel the governor to implement a statewide masking requirement that would protect both lives and livelihoods.”