State Launches Mask-Wearing Campaign On Social Media

ANNAPOLIS, MD — The Maryland Department of Health launched a social media campaign Thursday to promote wearing masks to prevent the spread of coronavirus. MDH said it anticipates a spike in summer activity, prompting the need for a reminder to stay safe.

The campaign will also remind Marylanders when they should wear a mask and explain how to wear one properly. The posts will use the hashtag "#MasksOnMaryland."

"Summer is here and we understand wanting to be out and about with family and friends, especially after staying home for such a long time," MDH Secretary Robert Neall stated in a press release. " We've made great progress, but we need to remember we're not out of the woods yet."

The campaign kicked off the same day that Maryland announced its 3,000th coronavirus-related death. The state has had 65,777 confirmed cases of the virus.

Maryland continues to ramp up testing, as Gov. Larry Hogan is pushing to test 10 percent of the state. Officials said that 8.3 percent of Marylanders have been tested as of Thursday.

The positivity rate reached a new low on Wednesday, with 4.38 percent of coronavirus tests returning positive. The state has conducted 603,000 tests, as of Thursday.

"To keep the curve flat and prevent a second wave of infections, we need everyone to do their part," MDH Deputy Secretary for Public Health Fran Phillips said in a press release. "Practice social distancing and wear a face covering in public spaces. By doing so, you can help prevent the inadvertent infection of others."

The social media campaign will continue throughout the pandemic and does not have an end date set.

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