To date, there have been more than 48 million worldwide cases, nine million recorded infections, and over 200,000 deaths as a result of COVID-19. Let that sink in. That’s more than a statistic, that’s thousands and thousands of families who have been forever impacted by the implications of this unparalleled virus. 

In fact over the last two weeks, there has been a significant spike in infections with the United States reaching its highest daily number of COVID-19 cases since the pandemic began.

Moreover, the virus does not discriminate. Regardless of age, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status, the virus can infect anyone at anytime. Unfortunately, the ability to overcome COVID-19 is dependent on a number of factors including one’s severity of symptoms and accessibility to quality healthcare.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has clearly stated that wearing a face mask is the most effective way to provide source control and slow the spread of the virus. Furthermore, experts say as we experience cooler temperatures, infection rates will most likely go up, with indoor occupancy causing close quarters with family members or roommates.

Simply put, wearing a mask is a matter of public health that should be politicized.

We each have a personal responsibility to ourselves, our families, and our greater communities to adhere to all public health measures including wearing a mask, washing hands, and maintaining a social distance.

No matter your political affiliation, you simply can’t deny science. Be part of the solution, not part of the problem.