BRYAN, TX — Fourth of July is normally a time to gather with family and friends. This year health professionals are pleading with people to make sure to practice social distancing and wear their masks.
Local officials have been asking residents to be smart as they plan for this weekend.
“For the good of the community, for the good our family, for your parents and grandparents, just please take heat of what has happened already in our community and the unbelievable spike in cases that we are seeing,” City of Waco Mayor Kyle Deaver said.
With case numbers soaring leading into the holiday, health professionals are reminding citizens that the coronavirus is not slowing down.
“Just because it's the Fourth of July doesn’t mean COVID-19 is taking a break. It certainly isn’t, and our numbers indicated that very clearly,” said director of Bell County Health District Dr. Amanda Robison-Chadwell.
Health officials want you to enjoy the holiday, but fewer people at your get-together is the smart way to celebrate.
“Celebrate with the people within your home, but going to see even your closest relatives and your good friends, there’s a risk of spreading COVID to everyone at that party,” said Waco-McLennan County Public Health District's Kelly Craine.
Whether at a barbecue or by the pool, being aware of social distancing will help stop the virus from spreading.
“So far what we know about this virus is that it is not waterborne, so it's not going to get in the water and get everyone sick. However, it is those close interactions with other people that is going to spread the virus,” said Brazos County Health District Health Educator Mary Parish.
Wearing your mask is highly encouraged.
“Again have that mask ready to go because you aren’t always going to be able to maintain that six-foot distance," said Craine.
So, being out and about this holiday weekend is okay if you exercise some caution.
