Dear editor,

On July 18, the Province of Quebec made masks mandatory in all public places.

And what about here, the Comox Valley? Well, many businesses have an optional policy regarding masks. Fair enough. But, the hospital?

I was there recently and half the public waiting for lab work did not have a mask on.

Wow.

Best practice, all around the world now, even the U.S., says to wear a mask. Why? For many reasons, the most telling for me, that one can be a carrier of the virus and not show symptoms. Quebec, the worst province in dealing with COVID-19, says, now, you must wear a mask in public. Good for them. Belatedly. And what about us?

If you are going to the hospital, at least show respect for others and put a mask on. We are all in this together. Thanks to our support workers for the great work you do!

Steve Faraher-Amidon,

Comox