A plea to community - wear a mask

As we begin to see another uptick in the number of patients hospitalized with COVID-19, I believe it is important to share some of what we've learned at Edward-Elmhurst Health during the past six months.

Whether hospitalized patients die or are discharged home, the disease is devastating. Patients are extremely sick, often requiring mechanical ventilation, intensive care and weeks in the hospital. The suffering experienced by our patients and their families has been immeasurable and has had a profound and unforgettable impact on our health care workers.

COVID-19 is very contagious. Why? Because it is "novel" or new. This means our bodies have no means to fight it. We do know, however, how to reduce the spread and your likelihood of contracting the virus: Wear a mask. Wash your hands and avoid touching your face. Practice physical distancing.

Recently, the CDC published a report of two hair stylists who were found to be positive for COVID-19. Between them, they served 139 clients. Not one of the 139 exposed individuals became infected. Why? Because the salon insisted that the stylists and their clients wear masks.

Our health care team has worked long and grueling hours over months to do everything possible to protect the health of our community. Their sacrifices have been and continue to be humbling.

The way you can protect yourself and those around you is simple, but not always easy to practice. But there is simply no denying that wearing a mask is the most effective means we have for preventing the spread of coronavirus. It is the responsible thing to do.

Wear a mask and protect yourself and those around you. And take a stand, remind others of the importance of wearing a mask. I believe it is our civic responsibility and the honorable thing to do.

Mary Lou Mastro, System CEO

Edward-Elmhurst Health