Decreased COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations Prompt Mask Order Extension

Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters extended the mask order for a second time on Friday, citing a reduction in cases and hospitalizations.

Waters signed Executive Order 34 on August 29, 2020, with support from city leaders, requiring face coverings be worn by residents, employees and visitors to Sevier County through September 30. Executive Order 34 extends Executive Order 23, which mandated face coverings beginning July 10.

“I am extending the mask mandate for the health and safety of the residents, employees, and visitors of Sevier County,” said Waters. “I’ve spoken to city leaders, the state health department, health care providers, local businesses, and tourism officials about the mandate, and they agree with the extension of this temporary order.”

According to the mayor’s office, between July 24 (two weeks after the first mandate went into effect) and August 28, the 7-day average daily case rate decreased by more than 70%, the 7-day average daily positive rate fell by more than 11%, and the 7-day average daily hospitalization rate fell by half. The CDC recommends the use of face coverings as a critical tool against COVID-19 that could reduce the spread of the disease.