Blog by Stephen Love, President/CEO, DFW Hospital Council

What is the best way to stimulate the economy? I can tell you in three simple words – wear a mask. As COVID-19 cases dramatically increase in Texas, we are being forced to delay business openings and the North Texas economy continues to suffer. Wearing a mask will prevent the spread of COVID-19, lower hospital admission rates and decrease the amount of time businesses remain closed. COVID-19 does not care if we have “cabin fever” or suffer from boredom. It is a frighteningly contagious disease.

The erroneous belief that refusing to wear a mask makes you appear cavalier is both irresponsible and a denial of science. Wearing a mask is a personal contribution we must make for the safety of our community and our economy. If our actions can prevent one person from getting sick or even worse, losing their life, we should not hesitate to wear a mask. If our efforts can decrease the amount of time businesses are closed and prevent one person from losing their job, we should wear a mask.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends cloth face coverings in public settings. These experts say the evidence is clear that masks are the most effective way of preventing the spread from both pre-symptomatic and asymptomatic people. They state we should follow the three W’s – wash our hands, wear a mask and watch our distance. But they conclude the most important of these W’s is wearing a mask.

We have witnessed first-hand the harsh impact this virus has had on residents. We salute our healthcare heroes for caring for patients in need. During this pandemic, we have distributed food to families, operated day care centers for children of first responders and provided a safe haven for the most vulnerable in our community. Yes, this has been a collaborative and compassionate time for Texas.

The virus is still rampant and residents have a moral responsibility to wear masks, practice safe physical distancing, wash their hands and practice good hygiene, especially when we are around other people. If someone simply coughs, it can cause infection. What is the best defense against a cough? That’s right – wearing a mask.

We are facing one of the greatest pandemics in U.S. history. As responsible citizens, we must commit to wearing a mask in order to protect each other from COVID-19. Wearing a mask reflects not just our respect for our fellow Texans, but our support of the businesses suffering during this difficult time. Show your respect – wear a mask.