There has been no mask mandate or policy to come down from Governor Roy Cooper but he has let it be known that cities and counties can make their own policies if they feel it’s necessary.
Gaston County announced today that effective Aug. 13, all employees, regardless of vaccination status, will need to wear a face mask while working indoors. The decision was made in light of the rapidly rising COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in Gaston County. The previous day, the county totaled 133 new cases, with 64 individuals in the hospital. Both numbers are at the highest level since February.
Some departments, such as Public Health and GEMS, have continuously worn masks throughout the pandemic due to the nature of the population that they serve.
The County continues to ask any residents who come to its buildings to wear a mask and social distance if they are unvaccinated.
Gaston County remains at 37 percent of its total population as fully vaccinated, with 41 percent partially vaccinated against COVID-19. The state-funded $100 gift card incentive appears to be helping boost numbers as 159 individuals have received their vaccine and a gift card at the Gaston County Public Health Department since late last week. 400 individuals have been vaccinated there since the clinic opened on June 3.
