Every week, the Times Free Press will publish five essential things to know about the coronavirus pandemic in the Chattanooga region.
For more updated case count numbers and other data related to Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama, visit timesfreepress.com/virus/.
Five things to know about COVID-19 in the Chattanooga region for the week ending on July 10:
1. Mask up, Chattanooga: People in Hamilton County are now required to wear a face mask or covering when in public.
Why it matters: For weeks, Hamilton County Mayor Jim Coppinger strongly urged citizens to wear face coverings to help curb the spread of COVID-19 but said he would not require people to do so. However, on the heels of the deadliest month for the virus and hospitalizations again near record highs, the mayor changed his tune and announced a mask mandate this week. Coppinger said the move will help businesses by making mask rules uniform, but the county will also lean on businesses to help with enforcement. With mask wearing becoming increasingly political, some business owners say the new rule could put them in a bind. Meanwhile, local law enforcement officials say they are unlikely to penalize people who do not comply with the $50 fine or jail time, opting instead to educate reluctant individuals. There are also some circumstances in which masks won’t be required, including during religious activities.