Statement of Debbie White, RN and President, on Governor Murphy’s Executive Order to Require Face Masks in Outdoor Settings When Social Distancing is Not Possible

After several months of battling the virus, healthcare workers applaud Governor Murphy’s Executive Order requiring a face mask when social distancing is not possible. It’s simple, wearing a mask outside will help reduce the rate at which COVID-19 will spread in NJ.  While the risk of exposure is lower outside, we must follow this guidance in order to prevent further outbreaks.

We should all continue to remain vigilant to reduce the risk of transmission. Perhaps a second wave is imminent as we head into the colder months, but currently we are not yet ready for another pandemic outbreak. We ask that you do your part to give our healthcare workers a break and give them a couple of months to prepare for a potential second surge of COVID-19.  When you are too close to others make sure to mask up.

Wearing a mask is not the only solution, but along with hand -washing, staying home if you have been exposed or know that you are infected, social distancing and getting tested will also help in the strategy to reduce transmission.  Healthcare workers have been wearing masks since the initial days of the outbreak and we will continue to do our part so we all can stay healthy and well.