Statewide Minnesota — If you’re planning to travel to Minnesota you’ll need to remember to take a mask with you.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has issued an Executive Order requiring people in Minnesota to wear a face covering in all indoor businesses and public indoor spaces, unless alone. Additionally, workers are required to wear a face covering when working outdoors in situations where social distancing cannot be maintained. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, research has shown that use of face coverings can greatly reduce the risk of infection when combined with other prevention efforts such as social distancing and hand hygiene.
Types of face coverings recommended by the Minnesota Department of Health include: a paper or disposable mask, a cloth mask, a neck gaiter, a scarf, a bandana or a religious face covering.
They say the mask must cover the nose and mouth completely, but should not be overly tight or restrictive and should feel comfortable to wear. They say that any mask that incorporates a valve that is designed to facilitate easy exhaling, mesh masks, or masks with openings, holes, visible gaps in the design or material, or vents are not sufficient face coverings because they allow droplets to be released from the mask.
The Minnesota Department of Health reminds you that a face covering is not a substitute for social distancing, but is especially important in situations when maintaining at least a 6-foot distance from other individuals who are not members of the same household is not possible.
For more on Minnesota Governor Tim Walz’ Executive Order requiring masks, CLICK HERE.
