THE PANDEMIC IS FAR FROM OVER — COVID-19 cases are still rising in the United States. Not to mention, many other countries worldwide. On November 26, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) COVID Data Tracker showed a total of 54,232 new cases and 1,230 recent deaths.
Experts say COVID-19 will phase out from pandemic to endemic as the vaccination rollout continues. But, this won't be very soon. Even as 73.9% of Americans aged five and above already have at least their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, millions remain unvaccinated. And as vaccine hesitancy persists while rapidly spreading virus mutations (e.g., the Delta variant) emerge, COVID-19 remains a threat to public health.
So, it’s still worth taking the time to look out for your safety and that of your loved ones. After all, how can you truly enjoy life knowing you could be risking everyone's health. That is why it is vital to know and follow COVID-19 safety tips. Even with easing restrictions across the country and vaccination efforts continuing.
The most effective first line of defense from COVID-19 and the new emerging threats it brings is information. It’s a powerful tool to understand what to do. And, what to avoid in order to keep everyone safe instead of getting paranoid, restless, in denial, or reckless. Correct information helps you understand, decide, and act accordingly.
The CDC, for example, has compiled some of the acquired facts on COVID-19, such as:
COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective at preventing COVID-19. This includes preventing severe illness and death. It also helps against severe disease and death from variants of the virus currently circulating in the United States, including the Delta variant. Infections happen in only a proportion of fully vaccinated people. Even with the Delta variant. When these infections occur among vaccinated people, they tend to be mild.
If fully vaccinated people become infected with the Delta variant, they can spread the virus to others. People with weakened immune systems may not be protected. Even if they are fully vaccinated. It is still uncertain as to how long COVID-19 vaccines can protect people.
We know that the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. The best move to keep everyone safe from COVID-19 and its deadly effects is through vaccination. If you haven't yet, then it's time to get your vaccine.
According to the CDC, to help children and adults from getting seriously ill even if they get COVID-19, everyone aged five and older can get vaccinated against COVID-19. If you have received your vaccine already, it means you can encourage your family and loved ones to get vaccinated as well.
Once vaccinated, you can resume doing things you did before the pandemic, only this time, with precaution. This means that it’s important to get tested if you have recently been exposed to someone with a confirmed case of the virus. If you’re a business owner, you may want to consider providing business COVID testing in Chicago for your staff to detect an active case of Covid-19 before it has a chance to spread among your staff.
Masks According to the CDC, wearing masks outdoors is not necessary unless you're in areas with a high number of COVID-19 cases. Or, if you are in activities with close contact with others who are not fully vaccinated. In indoor public places, unvaccinated individuals should wear masks. Those who have a medical condition or are taking medication that weakens their immune system should also wear one. Even if they are fully vaccinated.
When inside your home, avoid close contact with sick people for Covid-19 safety. If possible, maintain at least six feet distance from them. Outdoors, maintain the same distance from people who don't live with you in the house. Remember, some infected with COVID-19 are asymptomatic.
People who are at a higher risk of getting very sick benefit from this Covid-19 safety measure. Crowded places like restaurants, bars, fitness centers, or movie theaters put them at a higher risk for contracting COVID-19.
Maximize remote and virtual services, such as telemedicine Florida for medical and health concerns. Curogram, a leading telemedicine platform, allows patients to book appointments via texting. Clients can also access different services from the comfort of their home with a smartphone, tablet, or computer.
For Covid-19 safety, you should practice washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Better yet, make it a habit. Especially after being in a public place or blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
Washing your hands is vital in the following instances too:
A hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol will do if soap and water are not readily available.
Always cover your mouth when coughing and nose when sneezing with a tissue or the inside of your elbow. With a mask on, you can cough and sneeze on it. Make sure to put on a new, clean mask afterward. Throw the old mask and tissue in the trash. Then, wash your hands as soon as possible. If you have a reusable mask, wash it after each use.
You lose nothing from still observing these COVID-19 safety tips. Instead, you gain extra protection from the risks of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.
