Health experts warn July Fourth events could spread COVID-19

Planning to join family and friends to celebrate the Fourth of July?

You might want to take precautions and avoid large gatherings, as public health experts and physicians warn that Independence Day celebrations could spread the novel coronavirus, “endanger lives” and hinder reopening plans.

“In normal times, July Fourth is a day for friends, family, barbecues, and celebrations of everything American,” a statement from the American Medical Association said. “But with COVID-19 cases spiking across the country in the weeks since Memorial Day, these are anything but normal times, and a typical Fourth of July celebration could further spread the virus, endanger lives, overwhelm our health system, and undo the progress made toward reopening sectors of our economy.”

Americans should limit the size of their gatherings and consider celebrating only with people with whom they have already had close contact, according to the statement.

The AMA also urged folks to wear masks, practice social distancing and frequently wash their hands or use hand sanitizer.

“Failure to exercise these basic steps will result in a rise in COVID-19 cases, additional hotspots, and larger hurdles in the way of reopening,” according to the statement.

Local and state officials in Connecticut have also issued warnings around preventing the spread of disease during the holiday weekend.

“When you are with your loved ones and neighbors, please continue to maintain social distancing. Wear your mask. Wash your hands,” New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker said in a Fourth of July message to residents. “I know I’ve been saying this all along, but one of the main reasons we have seen very few new cases in New Haven is because you are proactively adhering to these guidelines to preserve the health of all our residents.”

In a briefing at Hammonassett Beach State Park in Madison on Friday, state officials struck a positive note about Connecticut’s response to the pandemic but also advised residents to continue to take precautions this weekend.

Gov, Ned Lamont told residents to enjoy the holiday weekend — but to do so “responsibly.”

“Connecticut went from a state with one of the highest infection rates to one of the lowest,” said Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz. “We know that we are not out of the woods yet ... our message today is that when you go to enjoy one of our beautiful beaches, please wear your masks, wash your hands frequently, carry hand sanitizer and practice social distancing.”