Boston residents have worn face masks in public for nearly a year to stop the spread of coronavirus, and despite some medical opinions that outdoor transmission is rare, they say they don’t plan on going out uncovered anytime soon.
“I personally feel that it’s really important to continue wearing masks, at least until we know that everyone has been vaccinated,” said 19-year-old Aja Webber.
Dr. Ashish Jha, Dean of Brown University’s School of Public Health, said he expects outdoor mask mandates like the one in Massachusetts to lift in the coming weeks. But even on Tuesday’s 70-degree, sunny day in the Public Garden, locals told the Herald they’re not ready to be barefaced again.
“I’m in a somewhat unique situation in the fact that I have a preexisting condition,” said Alan Rothman, 77. “Of course, I’ve gotten my two shots, but still — there’s always a concern.”
For some Bay Staters, their comfort with the mask mandate is situational.
“I still think it’s a good idea if you’re around a lot of people — if you’re going to an event and there’s a concert, or something. But if you’re by yourself, walking with your family, you can put your mask down,” said Chicopee resident Lisa Martial.
New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu ended the state’s mask mandate last week, but a move that widespread sounded jarring people in the more populated Boston area.
“I don’t think we’re ready for that. I don’t think anyone should be doing that,” Martial said.
“I can see the younger generation wanting to get rid of their masks, but most of my peers would frown on that,” said Rothman.
But even younger people said at this point, the masks don’t feel like that big of a deal.
“I’ve gotten more accustomed to it at this point, I suppose,” said 25-year-old Daniel Schwartz, who lives in densely packed Beacon Hill. “I have no problem with it.”
So when will Bostonians be ready to pack away their masks? A handful of joggers and walkers around Boston Common went completely mask-free Tuesday afternoon, which is in step with recent recommendations from doctors like Jha. Others told the Herald they want widespread vaccination, and they’ll wait until the experts agree it’s safe for everyone.
Do you think Gov. Charlie Baker should lift the mask mandate? Take our poll online at bostonherald.com today.
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