Gov. Evers on statewide mask mandate: 'This is about saving lives'

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Instead of their typical afternoon session, Wisconsin health leaders held their weekly COVID-19 briefing Friday morning, Jan. 29, to provide updates on cases and vaccinations. 

Officials say so far, 400,000 people have received a COVID-19 vaccine, and 91,000 Wisconsinites have received both doses. 

People who are 65 and older are one of the first in line because they say 85 percent of people in Wisconsin who have died of COVID are in that age bracket. 

Gov. Tony Evers said the state is expected to get a new supply next week, but the number of people who get vaccinated depends on the supply they receive. 

The state Assembly has put a pause on the repeal of the statewide mask mandate that was passed by the Senate and ordered by Evers. 

“This is about saving lives. If the Republicans are going to use the issue of improper order to discuss the legality of the order, hasn’t been decided by any court. We’re still going to move ahead with it. The options are few. The order is still in place," Gov. Evers said. 

Health care officials are still advising people who get the vaccine to wear masks and socially distance.