Near the end of Monday’s Flagler County Commission meeting, Commissioner Greg Hansen was blunt about one of the more contested protocols of the coronavirus era: “Wearing a mask–there’s half the medical community out there says that’s bullshit, you shouldn’t be wearing a mask,” Hansen said. He then made his own recommendation: if you’re worried, stay home or wear one.
Hansen did not elaborate on his data and did not respond to email and phone inquiries. Hours later both Bob Snyder, who heads the Flagler County Health Department, and Jonathan Lord, the county’s emergency management chief, strongly disagreed with Hansen’s characterization.
“All public health officials at the federal, state and local levels that I’ve spoken to totally disagree with that characterization,” Snyder said. “Mask-wearing is essential to protecting all of us in our community because of the asymptomatic rates for the virus being up to 50 percent.” In other words, half the people who have the virus may not know it or show symptoms, but are still spreading it. “This is more about protecting others, including our families, neighbors, friends, grandparents from getting the virus. That’s what it’s all about, protecting others.”
Hansen had caught reporters’ attention with his remark: during a roundtable with reporters on hurricane season early Monday afternoon, WNZF News Director Rich Carrol asked Lord about Hansen’s statement. “Is that misinformation? Are you seeing reports that mask wearing is BS, and does that concern you, that type of rhetoric is coming from our own Flagler County Commission.”
“I would say that mask-wearing is an extremely important tool in limiting or mitigating the spread of Covid-19 and other airborne diseases,” Lord said. “We’re not changing our message. It is important to stick to that. I mean, on the Internet, you could find anything that would back up any position anyone has. That’s I guess the wonder of the Internet. You can find anybody and anything, and people can create stuff., But at this point in time, everything that I have seen and all the messaging from the public health experts–and I’m not a public health expert, but I do trust them and everything that they say–is that mask-wearing does make a difference, and we are not changing that.” He said that will be enforced in shelters, for example, should shelters be needed during the hurricane season, just as the practice is being enforced on the county administration’s own grounds, at the Emergency Operations Center, for example.
But Hansen wasn’t necessarily picking out information off the Internet. No less an authority than the World Health Organization, which sets the tone for public health policy across the globe, especially in countries that don’t have as powerful a public health arm as America’s Centers for Disease Control, has consistently stated that mask-wearing is not essential for most.
“If you do not have respiratory symptoms such as fever, cough or runny nose, you do not need to wear a medical mask like this one,” says April Baller of WHO’s Health Emergency Program in a WHO video. “Mask alone can give you a false feeling of protection. It can even be a source of infection when not used correctly. Masks should only be used by healthcare workers, caretakers or by people who are sick with symptoms of fever and cough. Why? Because health care workers and caretakers are in close contact with ill individuals, so they are at higher risk of catching Covid-19. And sick people should protect others from droplets when they come out when they cough or sneeze.”
The video has been widely cited as evidence of a fundamental contradiction between guidance from the World Health Organization and diametrically opposed guidance from the CDC, which does recommend mask-wearing.
But citing the WHO video without context is risky: the video dates from March 9, still only a few months into the pandemic, and not long after even the CDC itself had recommended the same approach–because there weren’t enough masks to go around for those who needed them, especially healthcare workers. That’s no longer the case in the developed world, but it’s still the case in much of the developing or poorer world. Speaking to ABC News, Dr. William Schaffner, medical director of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, said that “advising universal mask wearing in a place where it’s impossible to adhere to that guidance could hurt the WHO’s reputation in those countries.”
Just as important: numerous studies since March have indicated that the asymptomatic rate for Covid-19 infections is much higher than originally believed, while other studies have concluded that wearing masks, even among health people, could significantly reduce the incidence of infection and deaths–but only if mask-wearing was “universal,” meaning at 80 percent or better.
Stephen Bickel, the medical director of the Flagler and Volusia County Health Departments, has also been advocating mask-wearing for its sheer numerical advantages: he said in interviews last month that even if 60 percent of people wore masks and masks were a mere 60 percent effective in reducing infections, that alone would stop the infection rate from growing.
Another caveat: mask-wearing recommendations by the CDC refer to mask-wearing when social distancing is not likely or possible, not when individuals are walking or driving alone or with members of their close family. In other words, wearing a mask while taking a walk on a trail, jogging on the beach, or doing other outdoor activities distanced from others is not necessary. But wearing a mask is necessary in public places with likely common public traffic, such as retail stores, grocery stores, medical and other high-traffic offices, and so on, because infectious droplets don’t travel or stay attached to the person sneezing or coughing, but can remain airborne long enough for others to ingest them. It’s in those cases that the wearing of masks is not so much to prevent ingesting infected droplets, but to stop oneself from spewing them.
That’s what statements such as “if you’re worried, stay home or wear one” misunderstand about mask-wearing: they’re not worn as self-protection. They’re worn in deference to the protection of others.
“It’s a very small, inexpensive inconvenience and sacrifice to stop transmission,” Snyder said, stressing the point about wearing them for others’ benefit, not one’s own.
Hansen had brought up the matter because, like other local officials–like officials everywhere–he’s been repeatedly asked by constituents about the seeming contradictions in recommendations. While Hansen did not dispense disinformation, he and the brief discussion he started with County Administrator Jerry Cameron and other commissioners did reveal recurring misunderstandings about CDC and local public health recommendations–and an impatience with that “very small, inexpensive inconvenience.”
“There are things I can’t rationalize to people that come ask me about them, like how come we can’t play softball when Walmart never closed, Home Depot never closed, Lowes never closed, and people are this close to each other in those places,” Hansen said during the discussion. “So it’s hard to answer the question: Mr. Commissioner, how come we can’t play softball. All these other places are open, they’re not wearing masks, they’re just running into each other. Why can’t we play? And I understand, it’s just a hard question to answer.”
All county parks are open except for team sports that would exceed the limit on gatherings of 10 people or more. The prohibition on team sports is actually a simple matter of numbers. The governor’s order in the current phase (expected to lift soon) restricts gatherings to 10 people or less. It was for that reason that when it met Monday, the County Commission did so behind closed doors. The public was not allowed in, so as to comply with the 10-person limit. Neither Hansen nor other commissioners objected. Hansen could have easily explained to constituents that the same recommendation applies to softball and other team sports.
But mask-wearing has taken on ideological hues, with mask-wearers falling on one side of this latest of partisan divides and non-wearers, taking their cues from President Trump, who has refused to wear masks anywhere even as his administration recommends them, on the other. There’s been a similar divide locally. None of the commissioners wore masks at their first joint, in-person meeting in more than two months Monday, even though all, being 50 or older are now in the higher-risk category, while every in-person town hall Palm Coast has held weekly through the emergency has featured officials wearing masks. But commissioners, including Hansen, had worn masks coming into the building, as required by building protocol, had their temperature check, and were issued a wrist-band indicating they were cleared to go in. The commission chairman explained at the beginning of the meeting that they’d also been cleared not to wear masks during the session as long as they maintained distances from each other.
“Our enforcement arm on those things is the sheriff’s office, using education rather than penalties, Cameron said. “I will point out that regardless of what we do, the governor can enforce his orders.”
“That’s the answer I give, we’re kind of tied by what the governor says we can do, that’s my only answer to these things but this doesn’t make sense,” Hansen said.
“We could choose to de-emphasize some of the enforcement, maybe not participate, but there are consequences for that,” Cameron said. “Even if we just flat said we aren’t going to enforce any part of this, the governor can come in and enforce it anyway.” Cameron then added: “On a personal basis, a lot of these things mystify me, but I’m trying to act in the best interest of Flagler County, and that’s not necessarily to get them in a fight with the governor.”
“The governor does leave some leeway in his pronouncements,” Commission Chairman Dave Sullivan said.
“The guidance keeps changing from CDC,” Cameron continued. “If you remember, is don’t wear a mask, then you have to wear a mask.” He did not explain why the guidance had changed, though that information has been readily available for months. “And you can pick this up off solid surfaces, then the guidance was you probably don’t pick it up. The latest guidance we’re getting, coming in last week, is that it’s not probable that you get this outdoors, if you’re practicing any kind of social distancing. That gives you a different pointer. The experts don’t get it right because they’re working off of incomplete information, but they’re more expert than we are.” He then added a derisive coda: “Supposedly,” and chuckled.
“If you fear, stay home,” Commissioner Joe Mullins said. “Nobody is making anybody come out.”
“That is correct, you do have the opportunity to self-isolate,” Cameron said.
It was soon after that that Hansen made his BS comment: “Wearing a mask–there’s half the medical community out there says that’s bullshit, you shouldn’t be wearing a mask. I think we’re at the point where we have to treat people as adults and human beings, and if you’re worried, stay home. If you’re worried, wear a mask. Otherwise, go about your business.”
Snyder said the statement misses the point. “From the public health perspective, our position is still the same that if there’s a need for you to venture out, get groceries, pick out medication, go to the restaurant, go to retail places, our economy is opening up, we encourage you to please wear a mask and wash your hands constantly. That is a very positive, and a very beneficial act to take in protecting yourself and your family against Covid-19.”
Sullivan in a brief interview subsequently said Hansen’s “was not a commission position.” He said the county “has agreed to the process and we encourage wearing masks.”
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Kathy says
Wearing a mask is common courtesy for your fellow man. And is not BS to me, an almost 66, immune compromised person. I know I can stay home, but it doesn’t hurt to wear a mask. I appreciate anyone around me who is wearing one. It shows they care about me, as well as themselves.
Sherry says
Ignorants like Greg Hanson need to STOP giving out incorrect information! Wearing a mask is part of caring for your neighbors and our community. It’s about protecting others, not yourself. If you are so incredibly self centered and selfish that you refuse to wear a mask, it is YOU that should stay home and STOP endangering the rest of us!
Jane Gentile-Youd says
Better safe than sorry compounded by no vaccine yet. My fiend makes reversible masks with decos such as doggie paws. I have no problem,, (even though I have COPD which makes it harder for me to breathe than those who have 100% use of their lungs), from wearing a mask in public. It certainly can’t hurt us.
Steve Robinson says
Wow. Joe Mullins and Greg Hansen–this is what passes for leadership in this county.
Charles F. Ericksen, Jr says
Making a mountain out of a molehill
Kate Hart says
Amen. This nonsense has to stop!
Paul says
Glad to see another clown that will never get a vote from me since he obviously doesn’t value the lives of his constituents. Hansen thinks we need to “play”. I thought he said we’re adults. This bastion of “integrity” uses dirty words to prove his manhood. Doesn’t work there, skippy. Turn off Fox. It is not 50% of medical professionals that say masks are no help. It’s a handful of TV doctors that were specifically recruited by the current propagandists to spread bad information in support of Trump. As far as Mullins, a Trump official boot licker, is concerned, I will gladly come over and spend 1 hour of my time, coughing, sneezing, and yelling and thinking for myself. I don’t think I’m Covid 19 positive, but I’ll do my best to infect Mullins and his family. They should be treated as fairly as his constituents. Same goes for Skippy.
Russell White says
Way to go Mr. Hansen..wake them up..Dr. Judy Mikovitz has been saying this since the start….
WhackAMole says
Let me see, listen to a “politician” or a doctor. Hmm. The medical people he says argue against masks are not my doctor. I trust my doctor. My doctor says masks will help prevent the spread of covid. I wear a mask. I will continue to wear a mask. It is my choice and my doctor and I had a nice discussion about them. She knows me and understands me and so I know she spoke honestly and factually. I don’t know this guy if I passed him at Publix so he can do what he wants and accept the risk even though he is not respecting the members of his community that need protecting. It just shows that people in power have made this political and they are not as compassionate as they think.
Russell White says
Wouldn.t you rather hear it from the “experts”?..
Google ,”Dr. Judy Mikovits”…
She worked on the virus at the USARID…20 YRS AGO!!!!..
I’d say that makes her more of an expert than a local county health official..
Google,”Dr. Buttar”…
Since anyone these days that tells the TRUTH is censored, you might have to go over to Brighteon.com to view videos of them that are not censored…
Educate yourself and quit listening to the main stream media that is after advertising dollars, NOT your health and well being….
James Jividen says
Two weeks ago the Governor announced that all youth actives should resume including athletics , how can they resume if the facilities are not open to them ? If the children are allowed to resume then you cannot refuse to allow the adults to get their exercise also .
Debby says
If we get together with local buissness and demand they make masks madatory inside the problem will be solved. No mask No entry that is a store owners right.
Concerned Citizen says
Ahh. Finally people are getting frustrated with masking/muzzling.
I knew it would happen before to long. As of right now masking/muzzling is optional. It is a guideline RECCOMENDED by the CDC. And nothing more than that. Not one of you out there have the right to tell me I need to put a mask on. And for those busniesses who refused me entry for no mask what gave you that authority? I’m specifically not going to wear one because you’re trying to make me. So there.
As a matter of fact wearing a mask is still illegal in this state. And that issue has not been brought up yet. And for those who don’t believe that I’ll provide the statutes again.
876.12 Wearing mask, hood, or other device on public way.—No person or persons over 16 years of age shall, while wearing any mask, hood, or device whereby any portion of the face is so hidden, concealed, or covered as to conceal the identity of the wearer, enter upon, or be or appear upon any lane, walk, alley, street, road, highway, or other public way in this state.
876.13 Wearing mask, hood, or other device on public property.—No person or persons shall in this state, while wearing any mask, hood, or device whereby any portion of the face is so hidden, concealed, or covered as to conceal the identity of the wearer, enter upon, or be, or appear upon or within the public property of any municipality or county of the state.
Let the mask police chew on that for a bit.
Robin Holman says
Mr.Hansen needs to be professional and respectful in the position he holds.Everyone needs to take responsibility to protect themselves and others.Want the economy open then be a part of the solution and help make it happen.Wear a mask.Had to renew my driver’s license today and was very relieved how responsible ,professional,and careful they were.My temperature was taken,asked me questions about exposure,and seated us with social distancing.I appreciated the extra steps taken to keep the pubic safe.Thank you
Duncan says
What misguidance! If you wear a mask you almost certainly protecting yourself and others around you. If you think it’s BS, wear one any way and protect the people with more sense that are around you. Is it such a inconvenience to wear a mask! I would suggest that their are at least 100 thousand lost soles that would say no.
What a disappointment that a commission engages in fake health advice Please, listen to our public health officials, not fake politicians.
John R Brady says
I think Greg is just trying to upstage Joe.
Bethechange says
So in one instance Mr Hansen says it’s hard to rationalize; answer a question about playing baseball as contrasted to what has been deemed essential access to a retailer. Here’s a suggestion: start googling your questions and for goodness sake, limit, as much as possible your reliance on .com sites, opting instead for .gov, .org, .edu, etc…But in another instance he confidently relays that, “Half the medical community out there says it’s bullshit, you shouldn’t be wearing a mask.” So is he confused or isn’t he? This is why Job 1 for public education is teaching critical thinking, boys and girls! When you grow up, there will be many seemingly important members of your community saying things that sound like facts, when they are simply opinions masquerading around as facts. Exhausting.
R. Griffin says
Wearing a mask decreases oxygen, and the decreased levels shows up in the blood within 45 minutes. Then you can add the effects of increased carbon dioxide inhalation created by these masks; especially the harder ones like N95. The fact ignored remains, medical masks are not designed to protect you from germs, they are designed to protect others from your germs. That’s why medical staff, and surgeons, wear them. If you are not ill, you do not require a mask. Covid-19 is a virus. A virus is a germ, and this germ is only a mild flu. Ignorance, mixed with propaganda, breeds fear. That’s what they want; judging by the mass media narrative.
As for myself, if a business requires a mask…I walk away and go elsewhere.
Willy Boy says
Possibly spreading the virus, but surely spreading misinformation.
marlee says
Wow……Oh my gosh!
I didn’t know Hansen had a Science background.
What is his particular Science specialization ?
Edith Campins says
I think I will stick to the CDC guidelines
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover.html
Robjr says
Software developers have an inside joke.
We always strive to build idiot proof software.
However, the world keeps building a better idiot.
Astrid Cruz says
I agree with Hansen. People are improperly using procedual mask and all mask in general. People touch surfaces then touching their mask, they take masks off put them in their pockets and so forth. Pretty soon we are going to see a rise in facial skin disorders due to the festering bacteria on people’s faces primarily in the buccal area.
Michelle says
He’s right!!!
Your killing your immune systems….
Your body’s not going to be able to fight off anything!!! Use proper universal precautions and keep your distance ,you should do that anyway even before the political PLANDEMIC…
Palm Coast Resident says
““If you do not have respiratory symptoms such as fever, cough or runny nose, you do not need to wear a medical mask like this one,” says April Baller of WHO’s Health Emergency Program in a WHO video. “Mask alone can give you a false feeling of protection. It can even be a source of infection when not used correctly. Masks should only be used by healthcare workers, caretakers or by people who are sick with symptoms of fever and cough. Why? Because health care workers and caretakers are in close contact with ill individuals, so they are at higher risk of catching Covid-19. And sick people should protect others from droplets when they come out when they cough or sneeze.” ”
I think this is the source of the confusion! Two things come from that statement: 1. People were rushing to get masks to protect themselves and there was starting to be a shortage of masks. and 2. We didn’t realize how the depth of viral spread from asymptomatic people.
So we learned new stuff, AND we were addressing the concerns people had about CATCHING it vs. spreading it.
Cloth masks don’t protect you much, but they mitigate spread. That’s why we do it. Not B.S.
mark101 says
And just think people actually vetoed for these two self centered individuals. This just proves they just don’t care about those around them or how people perceive them. Its their way or nothing.
capt says
What is Hansen embarrassed that it makes him look rather silly or not professional or is it, he wants to imitate King Trump. Wearing a mask is not a sign of weakness, or being silly or not being professional, its about protecting those around you and yourself if your immune system has been compromised. I think wearing a mask shows others you care.
Mike Cocchiola says
R. Griffin. You do realize you’re liable to be a carrier, a source. You know… asymptomatic! So, let us all know where you shop so we can avoid you. I don’t want to pass by you anywhere while you are not wearing a mask. You are a danger to me and everyone around you.
Russell White says
Here’s a novel idea for all you uneducated pro mask people..
How many people that have been infected by this virus were “mask wearers”?…
If you can still get the virus, even wearing a mask, what’s the use?..
The numbers don’t lie…Only the idiots telling you masks are mandatory or helpful are the lie…
Do some research and stop listening to the news thinking they are experts….
And, why isn’t the Flagler pier opened?…
Crowds of people wandering around all over downtown and on the beach but the pier is closed?…
Guess y’all are afraid of a suicide swarm on the pier…
Are y’all gonna burn it down like they did “Fisherman’s Wharf” in San Fran?…
Asking for a friend….lol
Diane Cocchiola says
Greg said masks are not necessary but he has one on so please tell me which is it. Mask or no mask Greg?
Mr. Deeds says
Hansen and Mullins, all we need one more and we will have our answer to the Three Stooges.
Trailer Bob says
Oh those pesky face masks. Personally, after faithfully wearing a mask for months, I am slowly being more particular as to when and were I were one. I do not wear one when with friends out here in the country, but do try to stay out of people’s faces. I watch out for the sound of coughing and sneezing. I carry a spray bottle filled with 99% alcohol in each of my vehicles. After I leave any store, I stray my hands and the item(s) I purchased. So I guess I am more concerned when in places where I do not know all the people, or just where they live or are from.
So, I guess I confront it just as I would a cold or flu…I don’t get very close to people in tight spaces, and I stay aware. To be honest, I just ordered two face shields, one for me and the other for my wife. They make much more sense, should the virus get worse in the future. I can then breath freely, protect my eyes ( a major commonly unrecognized issue for contracting Covid-19), and people can still see my beautiful face. So in the end, most of us are doing what we believe is right, and most of us DO wish to live, unlike some others who make ridiculous comments.
Have a nice Covid day!
John Blount says
Not wearing a mask is bull Shit!
Percy's mother says
FROM THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION, MAY 29, 2020:
If you are healthy, you only need to wear a mask if you are taking care of a person with COVID-19.
Wear a mask if you are coughing or sneezing.
Masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand-cleaning with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
If you wear a mask, then you must know how to use it and dispose of it properly.
In other words, if you’re afraid for your health and/or immunocompromised, then YOU may wear a mask, but you can’t enforce your fear onto the rest of society.
Percy's mother says
Please see the World Health Organization May 29,2020 post about wearing masks.
Debra Clark says
I’ve been staying home, Commissioner Hansen. But today I had to have blood drawn at Labcorp. I had an appointment so donned mask and gloves since I had part of a lung removed in March and am almost 70. While there, several walked in without masks. One proceeded to stand between my chair and the one where his wife was seated, about 6 feet away. I politely asked him to move away from me and he complied. He not only made it more dangerous for me, he made it more dangerous for the front line workers. I would love to stay home next week and wait in my living room for my doctor visit instead of her waiting room. Perhaps Commissioner Hansen could arrange a house call for me. I’m sure my doctor won’t mind.
Percy's mother says
If you are one of the public that needs protection from Covid-19, then by all means YOU wear a mask, but you can’t expect the rest of society to do what you think is right.
Please see my post above regarding what the World Health Organization May 29,2020 thinks about wearing masks.
Bill C says
Hansen is a science denier. The United States is #1 in the world in covid infections and he is a proud member of the pro covid team that keeps us there.
Flagler Resident says
Look deniers, this is a pandemic that destroys kidneys, hearts, lungs and causes strokes. Everyone in Broward county wears masks. This is not fear or worry, this is professional advice and common sense to listen to those who’s careers are studying viruses. I see people out and about without masks and I think “There’s your sign”. It’s a childish stubbornness.
William Powell says
It is BS. First it’s a mask. Then it’s forced temperature readings. Then it’s the Mark of the Beast. Because that’s all this mask wearing garbage is–social conditioning to get people used to these things so there will be little resistance when the Global Elite force their wicked mark on us.
Balfour says
If you think the virus is a ‘mild flu’ then you’re definitely not paying attention. Ask anyone who’s had it. Look up Nick Cordero, New York. Hospitalized 34 days in an induced coma. Look up Gregg Garfield, Los Angeles . In the hospital 64 days. Had to learn to walk again. both fit men, one an athlete, in their 40s. Though you won’t be able to ask all the people that had it, and were in the hospital and the doctors could not prevent their death.
— And if a Business requires that you wear a mask and you go elsewhere? Good, they don’t want you there anyway.
Regulator says
The man has a right to an opinion.
Balfour says
No one is “refusing to allow adults to get their exercise.” That would be ridiculous. They’re simply refusing to allow you to play a non-essential game with a bunch of other people, on the chance that it might result in illness or death for some. –Walking or running alone (or with family) on your street, is excellent, not to mention adequate, cardiovascular exercise.
— Precautions! What a wise and caring idea.
Maxi says
Judy Mikovits is a conspiracy theorist and has been discredited by the scientific community.
ClaudiaH says
Mr. Hansen needs to think about others. I for one will not be voting for him when he runs again. I want representation that cares about people who are vulnerable like my adult daughter who is totally immune suppressed and my husband who underwent chemo and radiation that killed his immune system too.
Mike Cocchiola says
Russell… here’s some information on the two “Drs.” you mentioned. Both are considered dangerous quacks and conspiracy theorists by the medical and scientific community. They are to Dr. Fauci what truth is to Trump.
From MEpedia:
In May of 2020, Dr Judy Mikovits released a preview for a documentary, Plandemic. It was removed from YouTube, Facebook, and other platforms, as it was flagged as health misinformation.[10] Mikovits made assertions that put others’ health at risk, such as the claim that wearing a face-mask “activates” the virus.
Mikovits has not published any peer-reviewed research on the SARS-CoV-2 virus or COVID-19 illness.
Rashid Ali Buttar (born January 20, 1966) is an American osteopathic physician, conspiracy theorist, and anti-vaccine proponent from Charlotte, North Carolina. He is known for his controversial use of chelation therapy for numerous conditions, including autism and cancer. He has twice been reprimanded by the North Carolina Board of Medical Examiners for unethical treatment of patients and cited by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for illegal marketing of unapproved and adulterated drugs.
Mike Cocchiola says
Concerned… so millions of Floridians are breaking the law including citizens, first responders, school officials, business owners and workers, shoppers… practically everyone, in fact. So, why don’t you file a complaint? Sue? Something to make those millions unmask.
Oh… let me and everyone here know where you’ll be so we don’t go there.
Sherry says
To the heartless despicable idiots who continue to say that Covid 19 “is only a mild flu”. . . please tell that to the families and loved ones of over 106,000 lost souls in the United States alone!!! Also, please cite your medical expertise/credentials that allows you to advise anyone to endanger others by not wearing a mask!!
OMG! To the other idiots that claim that wearing a dirty cloth mask can give you some kind of skin condition. . . . if you don’t have a washing machine, then wash them by hand, along with your other clothes. No comment about what your personal hygiene must be like. Either that or you just mindlessly copied and pasted from FOX or some other ridiculous news outlet.
We can all show caring, respect and community togetherness by wearing a mask, and social distancing to help lower the spread of this VERY contagious, VERY lethal virus that has killed ALMOST 400,000 people on our planet.
To refuse to be a good member of society who protects others makes you a social outcast who is committing crimes against humanity, clear and simple. We who are civilized educated, caring and compassionate are disgusted when we see those who refuse to wear a mask in crowded public places. You are not only pathetic, but you are dangerous to us, both physically and mentally. You will continue to be avoided by the “civil”, caring majority.
Patricia Bergman says
I agree, my dr saids no mask keep your distance and wash your hands. A little common sense goes a long way!
Steve says
WTG I do alot of the same procedures TB be safe
Tom K says
Totally agree, Steve. Let’s make sure we vote both of them out next election. What idiots!!
Concerned Citizen says
You come after me quite a bit on this forum. That’s Ok I don’t expect everyone to like me and I sleep just fine knowing that.
Yes there are laws on the books making mask wearing illegal. And they haven’t been removed. and once again masking is just a guideline from the CDC. An agency who has no legal authority whatsoever. Also the messages on masking are so mixed even the medical community can’t agree. But they want everyone to be sheep and follow the rules like good boys and girls.
Neither you or anyone else in this state or country can force a person to wear a mask. I live alone and work alone mostly and am just in my 50’s with no underlying health issues. Therefore I doubt I’m a threat to you or anyone else.
Dani says
I will pass that on to my neighbor’s 36 y/o cousin who was a personal trainer in tip top shape before he died of COVID-19 almost 3 weeks ago. I’m sure it will bring great comfort to his family. Their fear seems warranted.
Dani says
Just read two stories. One about Cases in Florida surging past highest #’s in 6 weeks & the other in People online about actor Nick Cordero, age 41, & his 60 day battle with COVI-19 and whether he is going to make it or not. His wife, with their infant child is probably just an alarmist.
hawkeye says
mine too
Percy's mother says
Mike, if you are wearing YOUR mask, then you shouldn’t have to worry about whether or not R. Griffin is wearing a mask or not.
Edith Campins says
You mean WHO, the organization trump just got us out of? The organization he blasted and denigrated for supposedly not giving us the right information? So now we should trust their advice? Really?
Bethechange says
The man may have a right to his opinion. The Commisioner does not. Right, wrong or indifferent, he is a member of an elected body, representative of those who elected him and as such should stick to facts.
Bill says
Yes..but all this talk, but not one person talks about testing
Bill says
Yes, I had chemo too. Bladder cancer, MRSA, UTI, blood clots in lungs and stage 4 kidney. Going to Mayo today. Everyone at hospital wearing masks. Hansen can not go to Advent or Mayo without mask
Cathy says
The anti-maskers sound very mature, selfless and considerate of their fellow citizens.
/s
Shark says
Edith – T-rump advised us to inject bleach. Do you trust his advice !!
Shark says
Whatever you do, don’t take the advice of DUGOUT DONNIE !!!
Sherry says
BetheChange. . . Right On! Vote Idiot Hanson Out! He has no idea how to be a “public” official, and represent his constituents. Mullins also!
Those who refuse to be good, caring neighbors and to wear a mask in crowded public places, please remember wearing a mask helps to protect us all from those who may be transmitting the virus, even without symptoms. The mask protects “others”, NOT necessarily yourself. Therefore, “my” wearing a mask is NOT a good protection from “you” who is NOT wearing a mask. What in the world is so hard to understand about that?
Personally, when I see someone not wearing a mask inside a crowded public place. . . . I automatically visualize them wearing a MAGA hat and being an uncaring, selfish, likely racist “cult” member. You are identifying yourselves, and will certainly continue to be pariahs to the majority of educated, caring, civilized society.
Ellen says
well if masks are so important how come none of the staff at my doctor’s office, including the NPs and MD wears one or says anything to me if I don’t have mine on.
However they’ve shown very little concern about this virus overall.
In fact I got an email in mid-march, and I thought oh finally they’re sending me something about covid-19, esp bc like all the office 3 times in 2 weeks with symptoms.
it was about erectile dysfunction and Kim Kardashian style placenta facials, sent to me straight from the doctor himself.
😵😐😠
Dale says
Russell says “If you can still get the virus, even wearing a mask, what’s the use?”
Sorry but thats not how it works. You wear a mask to protect me and i wear a mask to protect you. Ome does not wear a mask to protect themselves.
Dale says
Thats not how it works silly. The mask i wear is to keep YOU healthy.
And i will need you to wear one to keep me healthy. Thank you!
Johnny B says
Please check Florida statute 876.155 enacted in 1981. It supersedes 876.12 which was enacted in 1951 mainly to prohibit Klan activities. This later statute makes clear that it is only illegal to wear a mask if the wearers ” intent is to intimidate, deprive others of their civil rights or commit a crime.”
Therefore it is not illegal in Florida to wear a mask to prevent the spread of a virus.
Sherry says
I much prefer “my” doctor who has a sing on the outside door saying “Do Not Enter if You Are Not Wearing a Mask”! All the nurses and the doctor wear masks and all are continuing to self isolate.
What is so wrong with doing “all” that we possibly can to lower the risk of spreading this terrible virus? Why can we not just consider it a “Random Act of Kindness” to wear a mask to try and protect your neighbor. . . . regardless of their skin color also?
A huge “THANK YOU” to all those who are caring enough to wear masks. We “see” you and we appreciate you very much!!!!
What Else Is New says
Trumpsters who follow that ilk are suffering either from lack of intelligence, lack of kinesthesia, lack of consciousness….well, you get my drift. Egocentrism reigns. Only think of yourselves, dears. The rest of us will don a mask and hope we are safe, and will worry about others, hoping they too are safe.
Paul says
I find washing your face at least twice a day can keep a person clean. I thought everyone’s mother taught them little things like that. By the way, keeping your head out of your ass can reduce your “festering bacteria.”
Eric says
Actually the real BS is the Flagler County Board, made up of individuals that are completely inept. Surprised they even know how to breathe.
palmcoaster says
When is Hansen up for reelection to boot him at the ballot box? No wonder was appointed by Rick Scott originally! These carpet bagger’s really do still, a lot of damage to FL.
Agkistrodon says
Well well well, once again, those rushing to snap decisions with “Science” Were Wrong, AGAIN. masks are NOT required by all! That is both WHO and Cdc instructions. Only if your are at risk, or within THREE feet of others. Not 24, not 18, not 6. So, all if those who quoted their “science” that they read, but most do not have the actual education to follow the SCIENCE should be advised so were so stringently WRONG. But you wanted to force your uneducated opinion on others. SCIENCE is not rushed, and should never be used to substantiate FEAR or unknown, and definitely keep your damn politics OUT of it. And that is coming from an ACTUAL multiple degree, science journal published (several) times, person who worked and retired from the field with particular focus on population dynamics, which deals with morbidity rates, diseases and mass die offs. End of lesson.
Sherry says
June 6, 2020 – The World Health Organization has changed its stance on wearing face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic.People over 60 and people with underlying medical conditions should wear a medical-grade mask when they’re in public and cannot socially distance, the WHO said. The general public should wear a three-layer fabric mask in those situations.
The WHO also updated their advice for medical workers, saying all of them should always wear a medical mask while in clinical areas, not just people working with COVID-19 patients.
The organization had previously said there wasn’t enough medical evidence to support members of the public wearing a mask, unless they were sick or around people with the coronavirus. The widespread wearing of masks might lead to a mask shortage for medical workers and create a false sense of security in the public, WHO officials had said.
palmcoaster says
I am glad that you are not running for reelection and NO Thanks for your disservice to the residents of this county typical of a retired banker what could we expect!! Your molehill so far is made of over 120,000 victims.
Yes, wearing a mask is a courtesy to all and shows being responsible and respect for the lives of others if not mind your own…a good example that bully Hansen wont do. Sometimes karma rewards at the end…
KB says
Yet again…. another journalist posting incorrect information…. Covid 19 is a droplet virus….. not airborne. This appears to be yet another scare tactic through spreading misinformation educate yourself.
diane says
that’s outdated, at the start before they knew the extent of contagion and airborne properties of covid. keep up to date ! wearing masks prevents the spread which is all we have at this point to control this pandemic. and the CDCm WHO and everyone of knowledge says so.
diane says
no doctor, no nurse, no medical person at this point in a pandemic where America is the worse country with cases, deaths and no control over it, would ever say NOT to wear a mask. lies, misinformation, conspiracy theorists, and people simply protecting their political party need to STOP. we are one America , one nation, we are suppose to be together fighting the pandemic, NOT each other!
dede says
your germs without a mask are infecting other people……not just protecting you! people are carrying it and don’t even know it. you have no right to choose risking ME. put on your mask, i get sick from you, you are responsible.
tom says
A June 2020 update: WHO advises that governments should encourage the general public to wear masks and practice physical distancing .
The WHO guidance says people can make their own three-layer masks by using an inner layer of an absorbent material, such as cotton or cotton blends; a middle layer made of a non-woven material polypropylene or cotton to enhance filtration of droplets; and an outer layer of a non-absorbent material such polypropylene, polyester, or their blends. Stretchy, porous materials should be avoided.
detom says
using a mask to protect yourself and to protect others, is so much easier than a breathing tube in your lungs, in an induced coma, fighting to breathe to live, or dying. this is real and this is bad. unmasked people, do not risk my loved ones while i am wearing a mask to protect yours.
tom says
it’s not about caring for our fellow man, nor really about wearing masks, it’s become nothing more than a political statement. so keep it up, supporting your side and allow more to die……. this should not be political, it’s life and death…it’s right from wrong, it’s sacrifice for the better good for everyone. our Gov.officials are suppose to be about the better good for all of us…..but they aren’t. they’re about the politics. wake up!
de says
Thank you! a lots of quacks out there….the people listening to them are even worse!
tom says
yes, Gov. DeSantis…….that’s his sin. open schools, start youth activities, just following his parties lead. as parents, we are the only ones that will protect our kids. i don’t need any politician telling me how to do that…..or not do it!
de says
i have a right to tell you to wear your mask because your Covid germs you can be carrying is what will make me sick or kill me ! and people not wearing them is keeping this pandemic going and going and going…….come on!
i’m wearing mine to make sure i’m not carrying the Covid virus and protecting you, you do the same for me,…..that’s all that’s going to control this .
trying to make a political statement isn’t going to matter when they’re shoving a breathing tube down your lungs….. or mine, or the doctors or nurses or kids you infect!
Di says
people perpetrating lies and endangering someone else is irresponsible and should be held responsible. it’s a worldwide pandemic, more dead at this point than in all the wars and the only weapon we have to slow it down and to prevent people dying is to wear a simple cloth mask and some people spend more time and effort to argue about it then just doing it……SO wear a mask. Save a life. your mucus spray when you even speak is a deadly weapon .
Oof no says
I mean of course we are. Were not forcing people to do anything.