Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

As the father of a daughter who is a doctor and whose husband is an emergency room doctor in California, working on the front line against the coronavirus, I have some advice to give those who refuse to wear a mask when going into any business where they will encounter other persons. A mask is the first line in fighting the coronavirus when not in your home.

Our local businesses are doing their part by asking you to maintain six feet of separation while in their buildings and have set up people to count how many are entering to keep the crowd to a limit as to not spread the virus. Some even offer sanitizer spray at the door.

Why do you think the workers are wearing masks? To keep from inhaling the small droplets in the air from those of you who are selfishly disregarding the people around them. Doctor’s offices, hospitals and clinics will not allow you to enter without a mask. There are some businesses that are not allowing people in without a mask to protect others as well as yourself. States that have opened businesses such as restaurants and malls have seen a high rise in virus cases and deaths soon after crowds are again using those outlets.

Let’s not be selfish or just plain stupid. Health is more important than money. It is too soon to open for a few bucks and put yourself and others at risk. Wear a mask and help my kids and other medical people who are on the frontlines keep fighting the war on the coronavirus. They need all the help they can get! We need to keep nonessentials closed until we win the battle. You can all help! Please do.

Jim Jirele

Albert Lea