We're all in this fight together

To the editor:

I am disturbed about the growing lack of compliance wearing masks in public. While there are many urgent issues at this moment, stopping and mitigating the transmission of the coronavirus is crucial.

It has been my experience that 40 to 60 percent of dog walkers, strollers, runners and cyclists, people shouting on their cell pones, and even parents and caregivers are not wearing masks while outside. While the current research suggests that transmission outdoors is less likely than indoor transmission, it is possible, and we are all asked to wear masks when we can’t socially distance.

There’s a lot of conflicting research, but it seems that wearing a mask is a significant factor to slow transmission, and we are still having new cases.

We are making progress, but in 10463, there are still many new cases each day — and that’s only including people going for testing. Some people wear a mask around their neck, but very few pull them up when approaching. Some of these streets are wide, but I have had people coming from both directions, and families blocking places to turn.

In short, when running, biking, etc., without a mask, many don’t attempt to socially distance and leave others who wish to do so with limited choices. This occurs on Independence Avenue, West 246th Street, Fieldston Road and other local streets.

I get it. It’s unpleasant to wear a mask, especially when exercising. But that’s when people breathe heavily, may cough, and in short, may be unknowingly spreading the virus that causes COVID-19.

Adding to this, both Stop & Shop and Garden Gourmet — not all shoppers were wearing masks.

I would not want to put police officers at risk enforcing this, but if they drive by, pull over and just put up a sign about mask enforcement with some kind of warning.

That might encourage people to take this more seriously.

We are all in this together, and cooperation will help us fight this crisis together.

Cheryl Bluestone

Have an opinion? Share your thoughts as a letter to the editor. Make your submission to letters@riverdalepress.com. Please include your full name, phone number (for verification purposes only), and home address (which will not be published).