Milwaukee County COVID cases and hospitalizations reach highest point ever, no slow down seen for now

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Milwaukee County will ban certain types of face masks it says don't adequately prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Neck gaiters, bandanas, and winter scarves will not be acceptable face coverings from now on in county facilities and on the bus system.

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley said people wearing non-compliant masks will be given new ones to allow them to enter county facilities or ride a bus.

This comes at a time when Milwaukee County is experiencing the most cases and hospitalizations since the pandemic began in March.

Health officials said they're not seeing any signs of the disease slowing.

The most case growth is in white, adult populations, but cases are also increasing again in children.

"Whether at the state or local level, there is no indication of a slowing of this increase, there is no flattening of the curve," said Dr. Ben Weston with the county emergency management office.

Another testing site is opening Friday, Oct. 22 in South Milwaukee to give greater access to south shore communities.

The site is open to everyone.

It's a joint effort between the St. Francis/South Milwaukee, Cudahy, and Oak Creek Health Departments and the Wisconsin National Guard.

Here is a link to the hours and days it will be open.