Community is safer due to mask mandate

I am writing to thank the Panhandle Health District Board of Health for passing the mask mandate on November 19, 2020. And thank you to everyone who is wearing a mask while out in public.

I am sorry that we have come the to point where a mandate is necessary, not just to protect each other from COVID-19 but to keep from overwhelming our health system. However, I am thankful to see that so many people are respecting the health and concerns of their neighbors.

I realize that for many, this is an affront to your independence and I am thankful to those of you who are willing to set aside your personal preferences for the sake of the community as a whole. Maybe you don’t think you are at risk from this illness but I appreciate your consideration for those who see this situation differently.

As I walk the streets of my hometown, I am seeing more and more folks wearing masks. I know of at least one business that is requiring its employees to wear masks specifically because the mandate was issued. People continue to social distance and more often I see them pulling up a mask when this distance can’t be maintained. In short, the mandate is working.

It’s the right thing to do. My 92-year-old mother, my friend’s diabetic son, and my family member with cancer are safer because of this decision. Thank you Board of Health members.

KRISTA EBERLE

Sandpoint