Elections 2022: can I vote without a mask this Sunday, October 2?

A few days before the Regional and Municipal Elections, the National Office of Electoral Processes (ONPE) reported that so far the requirement to wear the mask is maintained so that citizens can vote this Sunday, October 2.

“So far there is no supreme decree that establishes the optional use of masks in closed and open spaces. We are still going to demand that citizens go to vote with a double mask or a KN95. When we have the decree, our security protocols will be updated”, said Juan Heredia, specialist in electoral training of the electoral entity in radio “Exitosa”.

What does the ONPE health protocol say

The ONPE reported that the health protocol was updated for this Sunday’s elections and these are the provisions for the voting centers:

It will not be necessary to present the physical or virtual card that accredits vaccination against COVID-19.
Yes, it will be mandatory for the voter and polling station members that they use a double mask or a KN95 correctly put on.
Already temperature will not be taken to the voter before entering the polling place, nor will alcohol be poured on their hands. ONPE will place pumps.
Voters can bring their own blue pen or they can use one of the 3 pens that the table members will have and that must be continuously disinfected.
Social distancing of one meter between voters and 50% capacity in the polling places.

Also, the classrooms where they will be the voting tables will be enabled alternately. Other recommendations for voters are: leave the polling place immediately after voting and avoid being accompanied by minors so as not to expose them, except in cases where they have no one to stay with.

What does the Minsa say?

The Ministry of Health reported on September 22 that the use of masks will be optional in open spaces and closed spaces with ventilation. In addition, it was indicated that this new measure, within the framework of the COVID-19 pandemic, will be made official through a supreme decree.

(Image: Minsa)

Through its social networks, the Minsa pointed out that “The beginning of the validity of a rule is not always the day after its publication and in the case of the rule on the use of masks, it is scheduled for (Saturday) October 1”.

According to what was announced by the Minsa, each person is entitled to use or not a mask to protect themselves in open or closed spaces with ventilation.