To wear or not to wear

“Public-health authorities have also increasingly swung behind the idea that face masks can be helpful in impeding transmission [of the corona virus] ... A review of 84 studies published online and awaiting peer review looked at the effectiveness of face masks in limiting the spread of the virus and concluded that governments should strongly encourage their regular use.” Wall Street Journal 5.15.20

It appears that a major point is missed in the decision to wear or not to wear a face mask in public. Wearing the mask shows consideration for the wellbeing of others. It does more to protect others from the spread of the virus by an asymptomatic wearer than it does to protect the person wearing the mask.

By May 21, one may reasonably expect more than 90,000 people to have died in this country because of the corona virus, with more certain to die as the virus continues to spread. Unfortunately, some will die because others did not want to wear a mask and they inadvertently spread the virus to someone else.

Jerry L. Marsh Ellsworth, Kan.

Ellsworth, Kan.

Safety measures being taken

Dear Editor:

COVID-19 has impacted every aspect of our lives, including the 2020 elections. Although there are no plans to change the Aug. 4, primary election or Nov. 3, general election, election officials throughout Kansas are implementing additional measures to protect the health of voters and election workers while also maintaining the security of Kansas elections.

Kansas voters will be able to cast their ballot in-person on election day, through advance in-person voting or by advance mail ballot. All Kansas registered voters may request an advance mail ballot without needing an excuse (K.S.A 25-1120). Voters with a permanent illness or disability may apply for a ballot to be mailed prior to every election.

COVID-19 has also led to an increase in misinformation online and through social media. Election related misinformation is especially prevalent, and we ask that you think twice before sharing. There will be no drastic changes to Kansas elections in 2020.

Finally, the first election deadlines are approaching. The candidate filing deadline is at noon June 1. The deadline for voters to change their party affiliation is June 1 for the primary election. If you have not registered to vote, now is the time! The deadline to register to vote for the primary election is July 14. By acting now to register to vote, change your party affiliation or request an advance mail ballot, you will help ease the burden on our local election offices.

Online election resources:

• Online voter registration | https://www.kdor.ks. gov/Apps/VoterReg/Default.aspx

• Update voter registration | https://www.kdor. ks.gov/Apps/VoterReg/Default.aspx.

• Verify your voter information | https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/VoterView/Home.do

• Request an advance mail ballot | https://www.sos. ks.gov/forms//elections/AV1.pdf

• Check advance mail ballot status | https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/VoterView/AbsenteeBallotSearch.do

Thank you for the privilege of serving as your Kansas Secretary of State. If you need assistance, please call (785) 296.4561 or e-mail election@ks.gov.

Respectfully submitted,

Scott Schwab

Kansas Secretary of State