The city of Springfield is once-again requiring masks to be worn indoors. The order takes effect on January 3rd and will be in place for at least 60 days. Mayor Domenic Sarno says the spike in coronavirus cases in Springfield is
The City of Springfield continues to see an alarming increase in positive COVID-19 cases, especially in the younger population. For the week of December 19, 2021, the City reported 1,132 cases, with 57% or 643 of the case being under the age of 30.
According to Springfield Mayor Dom Sarno, "“We have had our first re occurrence of positive Covid-19 cases in City Hall, therefore masks will be required in City Hall and all municipal buildings, effective immediately. Deep cleaning is underway where necessary. This measure is to preserve and protect our work force to keep our vital city services going. A city-wide indoor mask mandate will also be implemented, effective January 3, 2022. We are announcing this with time to allow businesses to prepare for this public health order.”
The mandate is in place for Springfield City Government workers now. It will be in place for the rest of the city, including the MGM Casino as of Monday January .
And, the Health and Human Services Secretary Helen Caulton Harris told reporters, “As we continue to see a troubling and alarming trend of increasing cases, the City of Springfield is updating our mask policy. For 60 days, masks or face coverings will be required in the City of Springfield beginning on January 3rd. After such time, we will review the data and make the recommendations on how to proceed next. If COVID-19 cases significantly decrease before the 60-day timeframe we will review the policy. I cannot stress enough, that this virus is here to stay and its infection rate is of serious concern. This is not a sprint; this is a marathon and unless we get vaccinated we are at risk.
Sarno, meantime, called for more COVID-19 vaccinations as the city struggles to reach a vaccinated rate of 60 percent.