COVID-19 Safety

The COVID-19 strain of the coronavirus was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization on Mar. 11, 2020. At that time, the virus had begun to spread outside of its origin country, China, and cases were rising rapidly around Europe. On Mar. 11, the United States had 1,267 confirmed cases of COVID-19, which would quickly inflate to over 164,000 cases by the end of that month. In an effort to contain the virus, social distancing protocols were implemented wherever possible all over the country: those in offices began to work from home, schools pivoted to online learning, and non-essential doctor’s appointments were shifted to a telehealth model.

Since March, COVID-19 has continued to spread at varying rates, but we are now entering what experts are calling the “Third Wave”: the third influx of cases. As we enter the winter and flu season, it is important to stay up to date on all COVID-19 facts so that it can be identified as quickly as possible to prevent further spread.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention updates its website regularly with the most up to date facts regarding COVID-19. To get tested, refer to your local public health authority to find COVID-19 testing sites.