http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/covid19-masks-hiltonhead-s5.jpgThe sooner people start following the orders, the more lives will be saved and the sooner we can get our economy back on track.

GREEN BAY, WI - With the pandemic raging in Green Bay and Northeast Wisconsin, State Senator Dave Hansen (D-Green Bay) urged people to support and follow recent emergency health orders requiring people to wear masks and limiting the number of people who can be in public places like bars, restaurants and parties.

“Wisconsin has one of the highest infection rates in the country and our area has one of the highest infection rates in the state,” said Hansen. “No one likes being limited in where they can go or wearing masks. This is not a political issue. The virus doesn’t care about politics. This is a life and death crisis and we all need to do our part to keep ourselves and others safe. Lives depend on it.”

Analysis shows that the pandemic is worse in counties where people are not taking the necessary precautions than it is in other counties where, combined with observance of the mask order, local orders have placed limits on occupancy for restaurants, taverns and other gatherings.

“We are seeing the number of cases, that although still high, declining in places where local orders are in place and people are practicing social distancing and taking seriously the safety masks provide. If we all do our part we can save lives, reduce the stress on our area hospitals and medical staff and begin to get our economy back on track.”

The Green Bay Packers recently announced that no fans will be allowed to attend games until there is a decline in the spread of the virus. The Green Bay Packers are an important economic engine for small businesses, including taverns and restaurants in Green Bay and around the area.

“We all want to get back to some version of normal including attending Packers games. But that won’t happen until everyone takes this virus seriously and does their part to help get it under control. Please wear a mask and heed the emergency orders put in place to protect you and your community.”