WINNEBAGO COUNTY (NBC 26) -- The Winnebago County Health Department has issued a face covering advisory to slow the spread of coronavirus.
"We've worked hard to control the spread of COVID-19 so far, but the virus has not gone away and is still a significant threat to our community," the health department said in a statement Wednesday.
The health department cites evidence that it says shows cloth face coverings help prevent people who have COVID-19 from spreading the virus to others.
According to the advisory, all people 2 years of age and older should wear a face covering that covers their nose and mouth when inside an enclosed space, outdoors if physical distancing can't be maintained, and gathering with individuals who do not live in the same household.
Exceptions to the advisory include people who are eating or drinking, and people with medical conditions and/or people who have trouble breathing.
The advisory says its recommendation should not be used as a justification to harass others.
"People should assume others have valid reasons for not wearing a face covering," the advisory states. "While the majority of people are able to wear cloth face coverings, some people may not be able to due to a medical condition, mental condition, or disability. Additionally, some people of color in the U.S. have experienced harassment and racism due to wearing a face covering in public."
The full advisory can be read here.
