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This page offers all of Delaware Public Media's ongoing coverage of the COVID-19 outbreak and how it is affecting the First State. Check here regularly for the latest new and information.

Gov. Carney mandates wearing face coverings in public places

Delaware Public Media

Delawareans are now required to wear a face mask or face covering in public places.

Gov. Carney added the requirement to his emergency order Saturday.Staring Tuesday, the order mandates masks be worn when people go to grocery stores, convenience stores, pharmacies, doctor's offices, and on public transportation. Children under 12 are exempted, and kids 2 and under are not to wear masks.

In issuing the new order, Carney said Delawareans should not become complacent.

"Wearing a face covering in public settings is important to prevent transmission of this disease,"said Carney in a statement. "But wearing a face covering is not permission to go out in public more often. Delawareans should stay home unless it's absolutely necessary to go out for essential work or essential items.

This latest update also adds new requirements for First State businesses.

By May 1, businesses must have employees wear face coverings while working in areas open to the public or when coming within six feet of other staff.  They are also mandated to provide employees with face coverings and hand sanitizer and deny people entry if the are not wearing a mask or covering.

The order adds that residents should use cloth face coverings and leave medical-grade masks for health care workers and first responders.

The Div. of Public Health notes people should practice strict hand-washing before and after touching the face covering, and emphasizes that face coverings are not a replacement for washing hands, practicing physical distancing, and staying home.

“Wearing a face covering is not a substitute for existing guidance around hand-washing and social distancing,” said DPH Director Dr. Karyl Rattay in a statement. “Delawareans should stay at home whenever possible, only leaving for essential activities. Wash your hands. Keep 6-10 feet between yourself and others."

DPH also says people who are sick should wear a face covering over their nose and mouth if they must be around other people – even while at home.

Tom Byrne has been a fixture covering news in Delaware for three decades. He joined Delaware Public Media in 2010 as our first news director and has guided the news team ever since. When he's not covering the news, he can be found reading history or pursuing his love of all things athletic.
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