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Publix associates now required to wear face masks amid COVID-19 pandemic

Posted at 8:42 AM, Apr 21, 2020
and last updated 2020-04-21 08:42:45-04

Publix stores now require associates to wear face masks amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The grocery chain cited CDC guidance that face covering can help slow the spread of coronavirus.

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Additionally, Publix says associates who aren't normally required to wear gloves may wear them if they can safely perform their job with them.

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The store released the following statement:

We value the health and safety of our associates and customers. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated its guidance as it continues to learn more about the coronavirus. Their recommendations indicate wearing any type of face covering in public places can help slow the spread of the coronavirus. As a result during this national emergency, we are requiring associates to wear face coverings, beginning April 20. Additionally, associates who are not normally required to wear gloves to voluntarily wear them, if they can safely perform their job duties. We are providing face coverings for all of our associates and plastic gloves for customer service and pharmacy associates, until our supplies are depleted. At that time, associates are required to provide their own face covering, and customer service and pharmacy associates may use their personal supply of gloves.