This year, people across the country have more options for spring break than being stuck at home.
A year on from the World Health Organization officially declaring the COVID-19 outbreak a world pandemic, people are itching to get back to some resemblance of normal. As a result, spring break this will result in people leaving their hometowns and traveling to states far away. According to the Transportation Security Administration, checkpoint travel numbers have topped a million every day the past week, the first time in a year.
With what seems like a third wave looming in Europe and fears of another wave while many Americans are making their spring break plans, how can people stay safe?
Take precautions and understand risks – In the past few weeks, states like Florida, Texas, and Oklahoma have lifted their restrictions, with many other states easing restrictions. Even as cases decrease every day and more people are getting vaccinated, there is still the risk of unknowingly getting and transmitting the virus. Even with the new vaccines, there are contagious variants appearing. If you are planning to go to a state with restrictions being lifted, continue to wear a mask and abide by advice from health experts.
What is the best mode of transportation? – Experts recommend a car ride to your spring break destination, as the risk is lower and the car is only surrounded by people that you know and no strangers that are passing by. By planning accordingly, however, a plane ride can be a safe trip too. Wearing a mask, avoiding crowds and eating before getting to the airport can decrease the risk of infection.
Stay with your people – In the age of masks and social distancing, it is now preferable to be on a desolated section of the beach then at a resort where people are standing shoulder to shoulder. It is best to limit time outside and out in public, and it is important to stay with the people that you are vacationing with. Any further mingling could lead to infection.
Don’t even go on spring break – The risks might outweigh the benefits. Even with vaccinations, the COVID-19 outbreak is still classified as a pandemic and has not been fully contained yet. The possibility of a super-spreader event by people getting infected while on break and bringing it back to their hometown is becoming increasingly likely. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, warns that spring break vacations could lead to another surge in cases. COVID fatigue is ramping into high gear with spring break, but staying home just might be the best option in order to protect yourself and your family.
No matter what you do for spring break, vacation or not, continue to be strong, wash your hands, and wear your mask. If we all do our part, the end to this dark chapter in our lives will end soon.
