Typically, summer months aren’t associated with illness as most people enjoy robust health at this time of year.
However, the summer months of 2020 and 2021 have been like no other in recent times, as COVID-19 pandemic persists in imposing many health restrictions.
The global pandemic has led to cancelled festivals, concerts and other events. Many vacations and large celebrations have been limited or put on hold.
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Despite the changes caused by the COVID-19, people can still enjoy summer time, yet with some restrictions.
Go Outside
As the COVID-19 spreads through respiratory droplets, staying indoors makes people less likely to inhale these droplets from an infected person.
Here are some activities one can enjoy close to home, with close family members:
- Walking, running and hiking
- Rollerblading and biking
- Fishing and hunting
- Golfing
- Kayaking, boating and sailing
- Fitness classes, held outside, that allow distance
Opt for Low-Risk Activities
As COVID-19 initially showed minimal impact on kids, many outdoor activities can be good choices. This includes picnics and summer camps.
Those going out for social activities should apply several procedures that reduce the spread of COVID-19, such as:
Hand Hygiene and Respiratory Etiquette
Teach and reinforce handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If water and soap are not available, use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Wear Masks
Masks may be challenging for campers (especially younger campers), so teach and reinforce the use of masks.
Always get adequate supplies
Always provide supplies including soap, hand sanitizer, paper towels, tissues, disinfectant wipes, masks (as feasible), and no-touch/foot pedal trash cans.
Be Careful with Moderate-risk Activities
Depending on how they’re done, many popular outdoor activities can also be done safely, including:
Restaurant patio dining:
Outdoor patio dining at uncrowded restaurants where patio tables are spaced appropriately is safer than indoor dining. Wear a mask when not eating or drinking.
Swimming pools and beaches:
Water itself doesn’t seem to spread the COVID-19 virus to people. Yet, close contact (closer than 6 feet, or 2 meters) with others can make these activities risky
BBQs and outdoor potlucks:
Keep your gathering small, maintaining social distance from others.
Sports and sporting events:
Contact sports, such as wrestling and basketball, carry more COVID-19 risk than others. Team sports such as tennis, baseball, softball and soccer, pose less risk because players can maintain physical distance.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, if you chose to go outside you should always:
- Wear a mask or maintain a six-foot distance
- Always wash your hands
- Stay away from crowded gatherings
Sources:
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/safe-activities-during-covid19/art-20489385
- https://health.gov/news/202004/staying-active-while-social-distancing-questions-and-answers
- https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/parks-rec/public-beaches.html
- https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/summer-camps.html