WEST POINT, Miss. (WTVA) -- The West Point mayor is now finalizing the mask order that will officially go into effect Thursday.

A surge in coronavirus cases and a cry for help from local hospitals here in north Mississippi is now forcing the mayor to ask everyone to wear a mask in public.

“If we wear a mask, if we’re smart and responsible, we can prevent that,” said Mayor Robbie Robinson.

Robinson says another economic lockdown could be catastrophic for the West Point community.

He feels without finding a way to slow the spread of coronavirus, economic lockdown is where the community is headed.

“There’s a definite increase in the number of cases and the number of deaths in Clay County,” he said.

Robinson says masks are required in all indoor public and private spaces.

He is asking all business owners to turn away customers that are not wearing a mask.

However, there are exceptions to the order, including age.

“Six and under do not have to wear a mask, six and older do."

Robinson said masks are only required in enclosed areas, not outdoors, at this time.

“Electric office, grocery stores, convenience stores, retail stores (are included),” said Robinson.

According to Robinson, there is no penalty for not wearing a mask; however, he asks everyone in the community to participate in keeping the community safe.