FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WFFT) — Kroger is the latest grocery store company to announce a mask requirement for its customers amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Officials announced Wednesday that in one week on July 22 all customers will be required to wear a facemask.
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Wearing a mask may be uncomfortable, but we all need to #MaskUpHoosiers.
— Indiana State Department of Health (@StateHealthIN) July 13, 2020
Prolonged use of face mask should not interfere with your normal breathing and will help prevent you from spreading #COVID19. pic.twitter.com/rox6Va7JdJ
Kroger Protective Plexiglass
Currently, only Kroger employees were required to wear a mask.
Kroger said in a news release that they "respect and acknowledge that some customers, due to medical reasons, may not be able to wear a mask."
This exception also applies to "small children."
Kroger says it encourages those customers to consider an alternative option like a face shield or facial covering.
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"As an employer, grocery provider and community partner, we have a responsibility to help keep our associates, customers and communities safe," Kroger officials said. "We are taking this extra step now because we recognize additional precautions are needed to protect our country."
Those unable to wear a mask or an alternative design, are asked to use Kroger's online pickup or delivery services.
Currently, Kroger's grocery pickup service remains free.
