Keys to staying healthy this holiday: wear a mask, maintain social distance and wash hands

As COVID-19 cases continue to rise dramatically in our community and state, Michael Chang, M.D., chief medical officer at USA Health, offers these important reminders about how to stay safe during the extended holiday weekend and beyond.

1. It’s important to wear a mask or cloth face covering when you’re not in your home. Wearing a face covering can prevent you from infecting other people and may also have an impact on your ability to become infected.
2. Maintain appropriate social distancing from others who don’t live with you.
3. Avoid large gatherings where social distance can’t be maintained.
4. Wash your hands before handling food, after sneezing and coughing, and after using the restroom.
5. Always cough or sneeze into your elbow.
6. Stay home if you are sick.
7. Maintain your overall health by eating properly, getting regular exercise and enough sleep, and continuing your scheduled health exams and appointments.

Chang addressed members of the media on Monday, June 29, ahead of Tuesday’s Mobile City Council meeting. The council scheduled another meeting for Wednesday, July 1, to further discuss the face covering ordinance.

USA Health put measures into place early during the COVID-19 global pandemic to help keep our patients and employees healthy. Those measures include visitor restrictions, daily screenings of all employees and universal masking.