Here's how to safely protest, rally and vote during the coronavirus pandemic:
The United States is facing two public health crises, says Dr. Jen Caudle, a family medicine physician and associate professor at Rowan University-School of Osteopathic Medicine. “One is the Covid-19 pandemic and the other is racial injustice against African Americans,” she says.”They're peaking at the same time.”
Beyond these mass protests, during an election year, there are often demonstrations, gatherings and rallies for different political issues. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, recently warned that protests and rallies are a “danger” and “risky,” in an
."If you're going to be in a situation where—beyond your control there's a lot of people around you—make sure you wear a mask," he added. People who are immunocompromised or have certain diseases, such as diabetes and obesity, have a higher risk of severe cases of Covid-19. But it’s not just about individual risk, you should also consider the health of the other people in your household, especially if they are older or have weakened immune systems, suggests Caudle.
Susan Polan, associate executive director for public affairs and advocacy with the American Public Health Association, believes voting is a social determinant of health. “Health care is important, but what's really important is the environment and world in which you live,” she says. The act of voting empowers people, allowing them to engage and take control: “I am participating with my community in a way that is going to make my community better,” she explains.
Polan is working with the nonpartisan group We Can Vote and several other public health and civic organizations to developthat are tailored to the specific rules in each state and will be updated from the primaries to the general election. They also plan to roll out Spanish language versions. While the state-to-state specifics may vary, there are some key measures that are applicable to all geographies. Voting from your own home is your best bet to reduce transmission of Covid-19.
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