MILWAUKEE, WI – The Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) will continue to require riders to wear masks on County buses. The decision comes out of an abundance of caution as COVID-19cases have increased locally over the past three weeks.
“After careful consideration MCTS will continue to require masks on County buses at this time. Some of the most vulnerable, high-risk residents rely on our buses to travel throughout the County each day. We are still in the midst of pandemic, and it is incumbent upon local leaders to do our part to keep residents safe and stop the spread of the disease,” said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. “This decision helps keep both residents and our drivers safe.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), traveling on public transportation increases a person’s risk of getting and spreading COVID-19 by bringing riders in close contact with others, frequently for lengthy periods. In addition, distancing from others is often difficult for riders on public transportation.
“COVID-19 is not over in Milwaukee County. Over the last three weeks, we’ve seen a 200 percent increase in COVID cases in our area. That number is rising each day due to a combination of factors. The emergence of new, more transmissible variants and low vaccination rates throughout the County means we must remain vigilant to slow the spread of the disease,” said Milwaukee County Chief Health Policy Advisor, Dr. Ben Weston. “As disease burden rises it is best to take caution with high-quality masks in high-risk settings. Residents must also consider protecting themselves by receiving a vaccine and a booster shot. Residents can find more information on where to receive a vaccine at www.HealthyMKE.com”
Milwaukee County and MCTS will continue to monitor the data and follow the scientific guidance to determine when the mask mandate for MCTS buses will be lifted in the future.
