Before You Go Out, Remember This

Were you planning on heading out to a patio or party for the upcoming long weekend? Remember something: COVID-19 has not gone anywhere.

Even though your region may be reporting significantly reduced cases of the virus, it is not as if it has just up and left. Since the beginning of the pandemic, health officials around the world have been warning of a second wave.

Some countries, like India, Brazil, and the United States, are still being hit hard by the first wave. And it can return anywhere if people aren’t careful.

The lower caseloads and businesses reopening can provide a false sense of security that may encourage people to behave as if there was never a pandemic at all. This behavior could prove risky and lead to a fast and furious increase in caseloads, particularly among young adults.

Many newly reported cases are occurring in adults under the age of 40. If you fall into this demographic or have a child that does, you must remain diligent in your attempts to reduce the risk of contracting the virus.

Remembering that an outbreak can occur virtually anywhere at any time, it’s important to keep your social bubble small. Mixing between small individual gatherings does little to limit exposure. Instead, pick your core group and stick with them.

If you do find yourself meeting up with more people, you’re increasing your risk. So, if you are branching out, try to reel it in. Also, maintain social distancing and wear a mask for all meetings.

The weather and increased communal activity can be inviting, but it does seem as if the economy is taking precedence over public health at the moment. The risk for COVID-19 still exists, so don’t be fooled by your favorite local restaurant reopening its doors.

Until a viable vaccine for the condition exists, we’re likely to be living with the risk of COVID-19 for the foreseeable future.