There are several campaigns underway in Maine to increase the use of masks during the pandemic. One — called “Mask Up for ME” — is spearheaded by the Community Health Leadership Board in Bangor.
Dr. James Jarvis of Northern Light Health compares wearing a mask and social distancing to other public health practices that Mainers have learned to embrace.
“Social distancing is like wearing a seatbelt in your car and is the primary way to prevent you from having an injury during a car accident,” says Jarvis. “Face coverings are like the airbag. It’s an added level of protection, and so they both need to be done at the same time.”
The campaign will include social media posts, video content and outreach within the region.
Bangor City Manager Cathy Conlow, who serves on the board, says mask-wearing makes business sense in both rural and urban regions of the state.
“It’s not a statement, it’s about making sure that we’re sustainable beyond this time,” Conlow says. “This is going to go on for quite some time, and if businesses want to make sure that they’re sustainable, this is the best way to do it.”
Another effort by the Maine State Chamber of Commerce also encourages Mainers to take personal responsibility for wearing masks as a way to curb disease transmission. The project, called ‘This is ME Counting on You,’ will include cable TV public service announcements and a new website.