Cooler temperatures and rising numbers are causing concern
Here are some tips for protecting yourself and your family
When COVID-19 was first gaining traction worldwide, it seemed as if there were so many unknowns. Did the virus live on surfaces, or spread through the air? Were children somehow immune? Were complications seen only in those only with underlying conditions?
Although we still have much to learn about the virus, COVID-19, and its long-term effects, we certainly know more now than before. And that’s important, because many experts believe we’ve entered a “third wave” of the virus, especially since colder weather is causing people to spend more time indoors. Plus, “pandemic fatigue” has set in for many people who are simply tired of restrictions. As we head into winter—and deal with the upcoming holidays—here are a few strategies to keep in mind:
Continue to connect: When the virus first surged, stay-at-home orders caused many people to reach out more frequently via video call, email, text, and social media with friends and family. They played board games together through Zoom, had parties in different locations, created book clubs, and took live online fitness classes. Although those stay-at-home restrictions have lifted for the most part, it’s still crucial to stay connected with loved ones, especially if you’re separated during the holidays.
Travel wisely: One of the biggest questions right now is what to do about the upcoming holiday season. Should you still get together, even though the U.S. recently hit its highest daily number of coronavirus cases since the pandemic began? Right now, there are no travel restrictions or mandates at the federal level. However, many states have restrictions or advisories for individuals entering their state and or travel through. Keep in mind that the Centers for Disease Control advises that if there was ever a year to skip the get-togethers, this is it. The CDC notes that travel increases your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19, and you may not show any symptoms but still be exposing family members to the virus. If you do need to travel, take a look at the CDC’s list of what to consider before you go.
Understand recommendations may change: Early in the pandemic, people were unsure if they needed to wash their groceries, leave their mail outside for 24 hours before bringing it in the house, or wear masks in their cars. Although we now know that none of those are necessary, that doesn’t mean the people who asked those questions or used those strategies were wrong. Recommendations change as information is gathered, so it’s important to stay on top of advice from reliable experts.
Wear a face cover: It’s still important, and still helps protect others in the community. Early research has indicated that areas of the country, and the world, where mask use is higher shows lower prevalence of the virus. All the other strategies you’ve been hearing about since February also apply: Maintain social distancing, wash hands often, and stay home if you’re sick
Keep cultivating healthy habits: As Lauren Lanzillo noted in a blog post about surviving pandemic fatigue, it’s crucial to maintain your emotional wellness and healthy habits because for many people, the stress and uncertainty is ongoing. Have some kindness and compassion for yourself, because this year is unlike any other and it’s okay not to be okay sometimes.
As always, UG2 is committed to the health and safety of our employees and customers. Not only do we take COVID precautions very seriously, but we’ve worked over the past eight months to develop innovative approaches to cleaning and disinfection for offices, manufacturing environments, schools, healthcare facilities, hotels, and more. Contact us for more information on how you can implement greater cleaning and protection strategies.