As more and more Americans are getting vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2, also known as Coronavirus or COVID-19, everyone can breathe a little easier. While the CDC has updated its recommendations regarding social distancing and mask wearing, it’s important to remember that the COVID-19 global pandemic is far from over. People of all ages should continue to follow CDC guidelines until daily new cases drop to a safer level.
At American Dental, we believe in promoting the health of people in our community, whether we’re talking about oral health or infectious diseases. Today, we want to focus on the children and teens who are getting close to the end of the school year. Here are a few tips to help you prevent transmitting COVID-19:
Wash Your Hands
Hand washing is one of the best ways to prevent transmitting COVID-19 or any other infectious disease. Wash your hands regularly throughout the day, especially after you sneeze, cough, or have physical contact with other people.
Cover Up Sneezes and Coughs
Because COVID-19 is transmitted via respiratory droplets, it’s very important to cover your mouth any time you sneeze or cough. You can also direct sneezes or coughs towards your shoulder or elbow, rather than into your hands; also, in accordance with the last tip, always remember to wash your hands afterwards.
Avoid Unnecessary Social Activities
We know it has been a tough year for everyone. Avoiding social gatherings is definitely makes us feel lonely, but we all have to tough it out and continue to limit our socializing for a bit longer. We encourage you to be strong during this time and push through until our nations infectious disease experts believe it is safe to start socializing again.
Always Wear a Mask When in Public (Children Over the Age of 2)
Since the beginning of the pandemic, mask wearing has been one of the most effective ways to prevent transmission of COVID-19. Don’t forget to bring your mask every time you leave the house and wear it properly when you’re in public. Make sure it fits tightly and that it covers your nose and mouth at all times. Follow this tip and you can significantly reduce your chances of spreading the virus to others.
Maintain Social Distance at School and during Activities
Even with masks and other measures, it is still possible to transmit COVID-19 if you are in close contact with others. When you’re in school or participating in activities, be sure to stay at least 6 feet away from others. Slowing the spread of the virus is everyone’s responsibility, so we encourage you to respect others’ space until the pandemic has subsided.
Best Dentists in the Chicago Area
While our expertise is in dentistry, the team at American Dental felt it was important to put this message out there. The pandemic has been long and difficult for everyone, but now that we can see the light at the end of the tunnel, we all have to keep pushing through.
We also want to let you know that it is safe for children, teens, and adults to visit the dentist during the pandemic. Whether you just need a regular checkup or you’re experiencing a dental emergency, visit our dentists in Chicago to take care of your oral health concerns. Visit our contact page to find out which one of our 7 locations is closest to you and give us a call or schedule an appointment online today.