As COVID Spikes in RI, McKee Rejects Call for Requiring Indoor Masking From Dr. Alexander-Scott
Saturday, December 11, 2021
COVID is not the only thing spiking in Rhode Island — so is the stress between Governor Dan McKee and his Director of Health.
While Rhode Island is suffering from an increase in the COVID transmission rate, cases, and hospitalizations, McKee has rejected the recommendation by Rhode Island Director of Health Nicole Alexander-Scott to require indoor masking.
Alexander-Scott not only made the recommendation but also provided a draft Executive Order.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTAccording to multiple Health Department sources — both employees and consultants — Alexander-Scott has recommended masking as part of a strategy to slow the transmission of the virus.
On Friday, Rhode Island’s transmission rate jumped up again to 595.6 cases per 100,000 over seven days.
The state’s action level is 100 cases per 100,000 over a seven-day period.
The Department of Health spokesman tried to play down the growing rift between Alexander-Scott and McKee and senior staff.
“Masks help limit the transmission of COVID-19. They are a very important tool to keep individuals and communities as safe as possible, particularly as we are seeing such significant rates of transmission. For any questions specifically on mask mandates, I would refer you to the Governor’s Office,” said Joseph Wendelken, Public Information Officer for RIDOH.
McKee’s press office refused to comment.
NY Requires Masks
While McKee is refusing to take action, New York is moving forward with restrictions.
The New York Times reports, "A new rule going into effect Monday makes masking mandatory at New York State businesses and venues that don’t require proof of vaccination. Germany said all medical staff must be vaccinated by mid-March, amid a Europe-wide fight against a new coronavirus surge."
More Deaths
The Rhode Island Department of Health also reported six more deaths. This brings the total number of COVID deaths in the state to 2,957.
“We're going continue to see hospitalizations - deaths lag a couple of weeks, but now we're over 200 people in the hospital and I really fear that we're going to start looking at eight to ten deaths a day over the next two or three weeks. It's a heartbreaker,” said Fine.
He warns especially those over 80 years of age are at tremendous risk and should “cocoon.” Fine says they should not be out shopping and warns about family events in which people attend who have not tested that day with a home test and urges people to wear masks around the elderly inside.
This story was first published 12/10/21 5:08 PM
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