Letter to the Editor: The mask mandate is no different than having to wear a seat belt or to not drive a motor vehicle while intoxicated

(The following Letter to the Editor is submitted by Kirsten Olson of Decorah):

"Why do some feel it necessary to make a political statement out of a medical issue.  Every reputable virologist, epidemiologist, and doctor tell us the same thing. Three things will help slow down the spread of the coronavirus: social distance, don't congregate in large crowds, and WEAR A MASK!!! This is not politics or an infringement on anyone's rights.  This is science.

This is no different than having, by law, to wear a seat belt, or not driving a motor vehicle while intoxicated.  It saves lives.  The small inconvenience of wearing a mask around others in public is not too much to ask if it helps save lives.  Thankfully we have a city council that has the guts to do the right thing to protect the residents of Decorah. Keep up the good work!"