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The county announced Thursday that they are partnering with Georgia Emergency Management and Troup County Emergency Management to ensure every citizen in Troup County has access to a face mask to slow the spread of COVID-19.

The news release said the “Mask Troup County” campaign aims to ensure all residents who need face coverings have access to them. 

The county is encouraging all residents to wear face masks in public settings to continue to mitigate the spread of the virus.

According to Georgia District 4 Public Health, Troup County COVID-19 cases have increased by 437 in 12 days. The numbers increased from 417 cases on June 6 to 863 cases on Thursday. 

During Wednesday’s LaGrange Rotary Club meeting, Georgia Department of Public Health Assistant Director Amy Fenn said the plan is to distribute more than 60,000 masks to the public.

This is a tremendous gesture from these organizations to provide for the county and community. 

We know some people have had a hard time getting access to a mask. But now everyone in Troup County should be able to get their hands on one. 

Camp said Thursday the county and state EMA have partnered in the past to hand out masks, and that the county will most likely continue to set up distribution sites until all masks are handed out.

We know masks are an imperative part of reducing the spread of the coronavirus. We hope that everyone takes advantage of this opportunity and starts to wear a mask. 

For more information about mask pick up stations, visit page 7 of today’s paper or go to lagrangenews.com.