December 9, 2020
We are entering a very different and difficult holiday season.
The country is beginning its ninth month of the pandemic and COVID-19 fatigue is setting in – right when it can be the most dangerous.
People are understandably weary. But COVID-19 positive cases are rising, and colder temperatures are making outdoor gatherings less appealing, removing a safer environment to avoid virus transmissions. Communities are facing their toughest test yet as officials worry that people are becoming less vigilant about the virus.
As we think about welcoming the December holidays, there doesn’t seem to be a lot of good cheer, with warnings of a seasonal surge in positive COVID-19 cases and appeals to skip traditional holiday celebrations, gatherings and special time with family and extended family. These social rituals are hugely important, and it is painful to think about cancelling them this year.
But there is danger in complacency.
COVID-19 has resulted in more than 280,000 deaths and more than 14.6 million confirmed infections to date in the United States. In Alabama as of this week, there have been a total of 269,877 confirmed cases of the virus and 3,889 deaths. Locally, positive COVID-19 cases are rising, and hospitals are approaching capacity.
While the pull of the holidays is strong, we can’t let our guard down. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and prevention has posted advice for safely celebrating the holidays.
We advise that you continue to follow the well-known precautions – wear masks, keep socially distanced and wash your hands frequently. Celebrate the holidays only with members of your own household. If you do gather with others, to stay the safest, limit the size of the group, maintain social distancing, wear masks when not eating and drinking, don’t share food or common utensils and gather outdoors as much as possible. You might even want to ask participants about any flu or cold-like symptoms they might have before getting together with them.
In the midst of the pandemic, there is a bright spot and a reason for optimism. The country is preparing to begin distributing COVID-19 vaccines that, with 90% to 95% reported efficacy rates, appear to be very promising.
As 2020 nears completion, I want to express my sincere gratitude that you have chosen University Medical Center as your health-care provider. Please know that it is our privilege to care for you.
UMC wishes you a safe, healthy and happy holiday season.
The College of Community Health Sciences operates University Medical Center
