Report by Paula Antolini, October 8, 2021, 9:32AM EDT
Message from theTown of Bethel, October 8, 2021:
COVID NUMBERS IMPROVE – MASK MANDATE TO END
As previously announced, we have been watching the COVID metrics closely over the past few months. The two primary measures, the number of new cases per 100,000 population and the percent of positive test cases have stabilized over the past two weeks, as shown below:
Week 3 Week 2 Last Week
New cases/100k 10.1 8.4 9.4
Percent positivity 3.1% 2.4% 2.2%
Considering that the new case rate remains below 10 per 100, 000, the mandatory mask order imposed on all publicly accessible indoor gathering spaces, including retails stores, is hereby rescinded.
However, we strongly encourage all Bethel residents to continue to wear a mask when indoors in accordance with CDC guidelines. People at higher risk of severe COVID should consider masking even when not required.
We also ask for your cooperation when visiting Bethel retail businesses. Some store owners have chosen to maintain the full mask policy for the safety of their staff and customers. Thank you for respecting the mask policies set by our local businesses.
MASK POLICY FOR BETHEL PUBLIC BUILDINGS
Town hall and other public buildings:
If fully vaccinated: Masks are optional.
If unvaccinated: Masks are mandatory.
Schools:
Per governor’s executive order, masks required at all times regardless of vaccine status.
Thank you for your cooperation.
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