The city of Springfield is renewing its call for a statewide face mask mandate.
Governor Parson has refused to issue one, saying it’s up to individuals to make sure they wear masks and curb the spread of the coronavirus.
But Dr. Bob Hughes with the Missouri Foundation for Health says the spread of the coronavirus is a statewide issue – one that can’t be contained at the local level.
Leaders with CoxHealth and Mercy say the surge in hospitalizations is threatening to overwhelm their hospitals.
A new tragic record: We hit 161 patients as of 11 a.m. This is up 50 patients from Monday. We will share thoughts at 2 p.m. during a media briefing with @CityofSgf, @SGCHD, @MercySGF and @MoFoundHealth. This is a drastic increase, and we need everyone’s help to slow spread. pic.twitter.com/yslSqwBQBy
— CoxHealth (@CoxHealth) November 20, 2020
Started the day with 91 COVID+ @MercySGF. At 102 now pending today’s discharges. You may not feel a surge where you are but we certainly do. Our teams and those 102 patients feel it more than anyone. Please don’t add to our census. Wear a mask. Celebrate small. #LoveThyNeighbor
— Erik Frederick (@CAOMercySGF) November 20, 2020
Missouri is one of 13 states without a face mask mandate.
Governor Parson issued a public health warning Friday, instead asking cities and counties to do more to crack down on the spread of the virus.
Springfield city leaders reminded people to follow the guidelines of the Road to Recovery order.
