BELLINGHAM, Wash. – Whatcom County is joining King County in urging residents to wear face masks to stop the spread of COVID-19.
County Health Officer Dr. Greg Stern issued a face covering directive that goes into effect May 22 and lasts until further notice.
Health Department Director Erika Lautenbach says they’re making the move in preparation for Phase Two of opening the economy.
Coverings should be worn in any public indoor or outdoor setting where you may be within six feet of someone you don’t live with, like a grocery store.
Approved coverings include cloth masks, bandanas, or scarves.
Dr. Stern says the directive does not allow law enforcement or citizens to stop, detain, intimidate or harass people who don’t comply.
Children under the age of two, individuals with a disability that makes it hard to wear or remove a face covering, and individuals who are deaf and use their face/mouth to communicate are among the groups of people who are exempt from the directive. See a full list here.