the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, Now that New Jersey is moving along in its multi-stage plan to reopen the state’s economy after months of shut downs due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there are many more opportunities for you to get out and about. But that doesn’t mean that you should forget about all of the important safety measures you’ve been taking: It’s still important to wear a face covering and practice social distancing, to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in your community.
“The reality is there are still coronavirus cases in New Jersey, and even though the numbers are dropping throughout the state, people still need to take precautions to reduce their risk,” says Cristina Cicogna, M.D., an infectious disease specialist at Hackensack University Medical Center. “We still have no cure for this illness and it still spreads as easily as it did earlier this year.”
Some people should think twice before running errands. If you have a health condition that could put you at higher risk of complications from COVID-19, shopping online is still an option. You may also be able to visit certain stores at off-peak hours which are designated for older adults and those with chronic health conditions.
Ways You Can Reduce Your Own Risk When Shopping
Many people are healthy and eager to venture out, after spending months at home. After the latest wave of reopenings, you can now visit non-essential retail stores, hair salons, barber shops, outdoor restaurants and more. If you’ve been craving a haircut, a pair of new shoes and a meal out, your wish has become reality.
Follow these precautions when running errands:
cover your nose and your mouth with a cloth face covering
stay 6 feet away from other people
use hand sanitizer after leaving a store or business
wearing gloves is not necessary
wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds as often as possible while out
go early or late to avoid crowds
stay home if you’re sick
“If you’re generally healthy, you can safely visit these businesses if you use good judgment, including wearing a mask and using hand sanitizer before and after your visit.” Dr. Cicogna says. “The higher risk scenarios occur when you’re in prolonged exposure to other people not wearing masks in indoor spaces.”
I think its so cool that there is no Influenza this year.
Zero cases and Zero deaths.