Treating others with kindness is essential for building strong and healthy communities. Although face mask mandates have been relaxed in St. Louis, masks are still recommended because of their protection. The CDC also advises people to stay up to date with their vaccines (if eligible) and get tested if they have symptoms.

Some unmasked people have noted receiving unkind comments or treatment despite masks not being mandatory in most places as of March 2022. Some people who are used to wearing masks find it awkward to shift to not wearing masks. Ill-treatment should not be encouraged at all. In places with mask restrictions, clear communication should be made to all concerned.

The following should be considered when deciding to wear a mask or not: 

1. Be aware of high-risk environments by using the CDC COVID-19 community level tool. This can help you know the rate of covid-19 infection around you so you can decide to use a mask or not. 

2. Consider the elderly, immunocompromised, and small children at a higher risk of being infected due to their weak immune system or ineligibility for the vaccine (in the case of children younger than 5. 

If treated unfairly where a weapon is involved or there is serious bodily injury,  you should get police or medical attention immediately. 

It is unclear how common mask bullying is. However, no level of bullying is appropriate.