Masks required to be worn in public settings across the state of Delaware
DOVER, Delaware (WPVI) -- Delaware residents are now required to wear masks or other face coverings in public settings after an order issued by Gov. John Carney.
As of 8 a.m. Tuesday morning, all persons over the age of 12 must wear a mask while in public settings, including in grocery stores, convenience stores, pharmacies, doctor's offices, and public transportation in the state of Delaware.
The governor on Saturday modified an emergency declaration to include the new requirement.
The rule is already in place in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
"I think it's a great thing. I've been wearing a mask since it started," explained Dee Kelleher of Wilmington.
The governor's office says children who are 2 years old or younger must not wear a face-covering due to the risk of suffocation.
"I think it's a preventative measure to try to keep us all healthy. It's a little suffocating to wear it all the time. I have asthma, but I would rather err on the side of caution," said shopper Dominique Greene.
The stay at home order remains in effect.
Businesses are also required to take certain steps by Friday, including providing face coverings and hand sanitizer for employees and denying entry to people who aren't wearing masks.
Any business that denies entry and provides medication, medical supplies, or food must provide alternate methods of pickup or delivery.
In a statement, Carney said in part, "All of our actions are guided by science and intended to save lives."
"I think it all makes sense. I appreciate it. When I go home I have someone who is compromised. I'm the one that goes out. I just think it's important and I appreciate people are doing it," Kelleher said.
CASES
On Monday, the Delaware Division of Public Health announced five additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the state's total to 125.
Individuals who have died from COVID-19 ranged in ages from 32 to 103 years old.
To date, 4,162 cases have been confirmed in the state.
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Masks required to be worn in public settings across the state of Delaware
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