The Fourth of July is approaching amid record-breaking COVID-19 numbers. Governor Gavin Newsom ordered the immediate shutdown of bars in several counties, and restaurants must revert to only deliveries and takeout. Beaches in LA, Long Beach, and Ventura will be closed to the public. Many communities have called off fireworks to prevent large crowds.
According to Dr. Michael Wilkes, a professor of medicine and global health at UC Davis, the future of the pandemic in Southern California is up to its residents this weekend.
“The pandemic really isn't about the choice to see people or not. It is about making good choices,” he says. “What’s going to happen is in our control. … The Fourth of July is associated with lots of partying and drinking, and that sort of leads to some opportunities for poor judgment.”
What to do if you go out
If you decide to celebrate, Wilkes recommends to do so outside and at least six feet away from others.
He also recommends following the three Ws: Wear a mask, wash your hands, and watch your distance.
Wilkes also advises against the use of gloves outside of cleaning or caring for the sick. He says gloves might actually increase the spread of germs. The best option is to wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds, or use hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol content or higher.
He says if you are sick, stay home, get tested, and isolate.