The sunny weather and spring religious holidays are tempting many members of our communities to become complacent about physical distancing. It’s understandable that community members want to gather with their families to celebrate, especially when everyone has already endured weeks apart. However, it is critical that we keep these protections in place as the COVID-19 response continues.
Washington’s health care system is beginning to flatten the curve as we continue our joint efforts to care for these patients. Yet, a surge could still overwhelm the system. It will take everyone’s continued adherence to social distancing policies to maintain the progress we’ve made.
WSHA and the Washington State Department of Health are asking hospital leaders and public health administrators to join together in publicly supporting the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order – read the full ask here. As community leaders, you are in a unique position to encourage everyone to continue physical distancing.
Specifically, you can urge communities and individuals to celebrate safely through shifting traditional gatherings from in-person to virtual this year. You can also share resources with your community, such as the CDC’s Checklist for Community and Faith Leaders or the HHS’ Center for Faith and Opportunity Initiatives’ FAQ for Faith-based and Community Leaders.
I look forward to the day we can all gather and celebrate in person, but we are not there yet, and we can keep our communities safe by raising awareness of the need for continued social distancing.
