Your Guide to Safely Enjoying The Summer of 2021
Chiara Espinal
The sun is out, and the temperature is risingーsummer is finally upon us! Many people are longing for a much-needed vacation after months of zoom meetings, virtual learning, and email correspondence. Although there are much fewer restrictions this summer, experts caution that people should still practice healthy habits to keep infection rates low.
The steady vaccine rollout combined with the gradual reopening of businesses and public areas has led many to believe that precautions are not as necessary this summer. A study published by the Canadian Medical Association Journal reported that high temperatures during the summer had no significant impact on the transmission of COVID-19 last summer. Instead, researchers have concluded that large gatherings where social distancing was not implemented resulted in high surges of coronavirus cases.
Spending time outdoors is beneficial to your mental and physical health—especially after long months in quarantine. However, people are encouraged to remain conscientious of how the virus is spread in order to safely enjoy the summer. Let's discuss some of the many ways you and your loved ones can make the most of the long-awaited summer!
Just Keep Swimming
Health Grades reports that the CDC has found no substantial evidence to support concerns that COVID-19 can be spread through pool water. Pools that are properly maintained according to sanitation guidelines are considered safe to use. As long as you are not experiencing any symptoms associated with COVID-19, you can use swimming pools. However, maintaining six feet of distance between yourself and others while refraining from participating in large gatherings is still advised.
Plan a Picnic in a Park
As countless shops and restaurants begin to open their indoor spaces for business, you are likely to be met with long lines and crowded indoor areas this summer. Instead of opting to eat inside a restaurant, why not order from a takeout place and plan a picnic at a park with loved ones! Outdoor picnics are the perfect way to interact with small groups from outside of your household. It also lessens the risk of infection that crowded indoor dining spaces often have.
Get Your Dose of Vitamin Sea
Everyday Health reports that there is no evidence proving that the virus can be spread through ocean water. This means that any infection that does occur while at the beach would likely be a result of close contact with people. Dr. Humberto Choi, a pulmonologist at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, reminds people that the aerosol from a person infected with COVID-19 disperses in an even, short time frame when outside. This lessens the probability of being infected and is safer than the aerosol dispersing indoors. Beachgoers are advised to set up their towels and umbrellas at least six feet apart from others. Rather than lounging on the sand, sunbathers should try activities like biking, walking, or running while at the beach.
Reconnect with Nature
In recent months, several areas of the country have opened up hiking trails and local parks to the public. Whether it be a simple walk underneath the trees or a full-blown hike, the fresh air, vitamin D, and physical activity can do wonders for your mental and physical health. Nature walks have been proven to help individuals cope with feelings of anxiety that may have been exacerbated by the pandemic. To help ease stress, try connecting with your environment this summer by taking a trip to your local hiking trail and maintaining a safe distance from other hikers.
Visit the links below for more ways to make the most of your summer and to answer any questions you may have about what activities are safe to participate in. As always, be sure to check your national and local coronavirus infection prevention guidelines for specific information in your area. The staff of the Cliffside Courier wishes faculty and students a fun and safe summer vacation!
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