The Jackson-Madison County Regional Health Department will extend the mask mandate in Madison County through Mar. 31, 2021.

“We’ve seen a decrease in the number of new cases in Madison County,” Regional Director Kim Tedford said. “Masks work and we appreciate everyone doing their part to keep those numbers down.”

The Madison County COVID-19 Task Force, which includes city, county, and community leaders, supports the decision to extend the mask mandate.

Before Friday, the Jackson-Madison County Regional Health Department had given a total of 17,361 doses of COVID-19 vaccine, with 7,240 of those being fully vaccinated.

“We have not moved to Phase 1c yet, which includes people with underlying health conditions. This population is considered high risk for COVID-19 related hospitalizations and death,” Tedford said. “We hope to let the mask mandate expire in a month as more people become vaccinated.”

Masks or face coverings will continue to be required in all Madison County businesses open to the public. Children under the age of 2 and places of worship are exempt. People are not required to wear masks while seated and eating at a restaurant.

The Jackson-Madison County Regional Health Department encourages people to take the following steps to help slow the spread of COVID-19:

Wear a face covering in public when around people not in your household and you can’t social distance.

Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

Practice social distancing by staying at least six-feet away from people who don’t live in your household.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily.

Check for COVID-19 signs and symptoms daily and stay home if you are sick.

Call the Jackson-Madison County COVID-19 Hotline at 731-240-1771 if you have questions.