Miami-Dade County has issued an emergency measure ordering essential workers and customers to wear a face mask amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
The order took effect at 11:59 p.m. Thursday and says people working in or visiting grocery stores, restaurants, pharmacies, construction sites, public transit vehicles, vehicles for hire, and locations where social distancing measures are not possible must wear facial coverings as defined by the CDC.
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At a news conference Friday, Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez said the county would be strictly enforcing the measure.
"Starting tomorrow, businesses that do not comply will be shut down," Gimenez said.
A mask - which includes a face mask, homemade mask, or cloth covering with a scarf, bandana, handkerchief, or any other type of cloth covering - should cover the nose and mouth. N95 respirators should be reserved for healthcare workers.
Gimenez said masks aren't a substitute for social distancing, which should still be practiced.
Several cities in Miami-Dade County have already issued similar orders, as well as some cities in Broward County.
