Texas Mask Mandate Lifted

Today, Governor Abbott announced that he is ending the statewide mask mandate and removing capacity restrictions on businesses.  I know this is huge news, so I wanted to share my opinions on this and my recommendations.  Please know, this is not a political statement, this is my medical opinion. 

We are still in the middle of a pandemic, and I firmly believe that social distancing and mask-wearing are important strategies to mitigate the spread of coronavirus.  I am glad that vaccines are becoming more readily available, and I encourage everyone (with very few exceptions) to get one as soon as possible.  However, I don’t believe we are at a place right now where we have reduced the risk of COVID transmission enough to recommend that people not take the same precautions they’ve been taking. 

I recommend that you continue to social distance, to wear a mask when social distancing is not possible, to avoid crowded spaces, to wash your hands regularly, stay home if you’re not feeling well, follow quarantine protocols and to get vaccinated.  These recommendations, of course, are in addition to all of the other things I encourage you to do – eat healthy, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep and reduce your stress level.

I long for the day when all of this is behind us, and am hopeful that that day is coming soon, but I think it is too early to proceed forward without taking the recommended precautions.  Remember, the common enemy in this is the virus, it’s not masks, or restrictions, or people with different opinions.  So, please be safe and be kind.