To reduce confusion and unnecessary animosity amongst our residents, the Lake County General Health District (LCGHD) is issuing this clarification regarding recognized exemptions to the mandatory face mask requirement for businesses in Lake County, Ohio.
The Ohio Department of Health orders addressing face mask usage have several exemptions that may not have been universally recognized by all businesses and patrons within Lake County.
Specifically, the requirement to wear a facial covering does not apply:
- When the individual is under 10 years of age;
- If an individual has a medical condition, including respiratory conditions that restrict breathing, a mental health condition or a disability that makes wearing a facial covering unsafe; or
- If the individual is communicating or seeking to communicate with someone who is hearing impaired or has another disability for which the ability to see the mouth is essential for communication.
With these exemptions in mind, LCGHD respectfully asks all citizens NOT to confront individuals seen entering a Lake County business without a face covering; but to instead respect their privacy. Any questions regarding the individuals’ authorized exemption(s) should be directed to the business owner or representative. Health Commissioner Ron Graham had this to say, “There have been so many challenges in the path Ohio has taken to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. I am proud of Lake County’s response, as we have come together despite different views to protect our communities. I’m fearful that this long journey has taken its toll on our residents. I am hopeful we can be successful and respectful as we head into the final chapter of our journey.” Commissioner Graham also went on to say, “It is critical that we show our youth that we can be respectful and successful despite different views if we take the time to work together. The normalcy that we all seek is very near, as more individuals accept the vaccine, and help us to be successful in accomplishing our goal
We are all in this together, and the LCGHD encourages all businesses and customers to acknowledge these exemptions, and avoid misunderstandings and associated potential confrontations. Additionally, the LCGHD is working with local volunteers to help spread the word to businesses throughout Lake County about the face mask exemptions, and to encourage them to place the official LCGHD flyer at their entranceway. This flyer can also be downloaded and printed at www.LCGHD.org.
During a trial run of the volunteers working with local businesses, the initial feedback was positive, and businesses were appreciative of the clarification regarding face mask exemptions.
If you have any questions, please contact the LCGHD at 440-350-2188 or by email at covid19@lcghd.org.
