The Scientific Debate Over Coronavirus: Part I

Posted By Regan Zambri Long | Posted on: Jul 06, 2020

  There’s no denying the inherent frustration of our efforts to halt the spread of the coronavirus. Much of this stems from advice that seems to change on a daily basis. From surface spread to the value of masks, shifting recommendations from the CDC leave many of us deeply confused about how this virus spreads — and what can realistically be done to contain it. Because the coronavirus is novel, many scientists share this overwhelming sense of confusion. While we know far more about the disease than we did just a few short months ago, researchers have yet to reach…

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Safety Tips to Celebrate July 4th Safely and Avoid COVID-19

Posted By Regan Zambri Long | Posted on: Jul 02, 2020

  Phased reopenings across the country have led some to believe that the coronavirus is no longer a threat, but this is not the case. In fact, Los Angeles County and several counties in Florida have closed their beaches for Independence Day weekend due to drastic increases in new cases of COVID-19. The pandemic is not contained, so celebrating Independence Day at home with your family is still the safest way to reduce the spread of infection. Celebrating Independence Day Safely DC’s Mayor Bowser has encouraged DC residents to celebrate July 4th at home, and to maintain distance if they…

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USDA Issues Warning to Stay Food Safe on Independence Day

Posted By Regan Zambri Long | Posted on: Jul 02, 2020

  The United States Department of Agriculture reminds Americans every year of the importance of food safety during Independence Day Weekend. Although celebrations across America will be different this year because of the coronavirus pandemic, abiding by food safety suggestions is as important as ever. The USDA recognizes that there is an increase in foodborne illness during the summer due to warmer temperatures and extended time spent outside. In addition, this year in particular could have many first-time cooks who may not know important food safety practices. The USDA provided the following food safety tips in their recent press release:…

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Safety Tips For Virtual And Home-Based Summer Camps

Posted By Regan Zambri Long | Posted on: Jul 01, 2020

  Summer camp once offered a wonderful respite for children and parents alike. All that has changed in an age of coronavirus, however. While some socially distanced day camps remain available, not all parents are willing to take the risk of sending their kids to such destinations. Meanwhile, overnight camps are barred in many locations, as it’s all but impossible to maintain proper mitigation tactics in such an environment. As with school, the primary workaround involves virtual solutions, which promise to deliver all of the enrichment of camp while keeping hazards to a minimum. But while such approaches avoid spreading…

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Safety Guidelines for Fourth of July Fireworks

Posted By Regan Zambri Long | Posted on: Jun 30, 2020

  Social distancing guidelines have forced some cities and towns across the United States to cancel their celebrations, including firework shows, for the Fourth of July. This means that many more people will be celebrating at home and may plan to set off their own fireworks. Experts are warning that there is always a risk when using fireworks at home. A common misconception is that small and legal fireworks are always safe to use. However, there is always a risk because pyrotechnics are unpredictable and can easily malfunction. Even sparklers can reach up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit and cause serious…

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Culture and Arts During a COVID-19 Summer

Posted By Regan Zambri Long | Posted on: Jun 30, 2020

  Every summer, thousands of Americans visit museums, attend art performances, and take part in other cultural activities. But with social distancing guidelines still in effect in the United States, cultural experiences may look different this summer. Museums and cultural centers have been closed since mid-March, and many performances for the summer have been cancelled. Washington, D.C. will enter its second phase of re-opening near the end of the month. The guidelines for Phase 2 allow for the re-opening of libraries, museums, and exhibits. However, these places are only allowed to operate with strict capacity limits and physical distancing measures….

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It Can Happen to Anyone: Child Deaths from Hot Cars

Posted By Regan Zambri Long | Posted on: Jun 29, 2020

  Every year as temperatures rise, experts warn parents of the risks of leaving children alone in cars. Approximately 39 children under the age of 15 die every year from heatstroke caused by sitting in a hot vehicle. A child’s body is not able to regulate its temperature as efficiently as adults, meaning that a child can overheat three to five times faster than an adult. The internal temperature of a car can rise quickly, up to 20 degrees Fahrenheit in a few minutes, even when the weather is mild or cloudy. Opening a window or keeping the air conditioning…

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The Latest Science on How COVID Impacts Nursing Homes

Posted By Regan Zambri Long | Posted on: Jun 25, 2020

  When the novel coronavirus first hit the United States, its impact was greatest in nursing homes throughout the nation. These remain the epicenter of some of the disease’s worst outbreaks. It’s easy to see why: not only do these facilities house those most vulnerable to the illness, many harbor unsanitary conditions and suffer numerous other forms of neglect. The problematic nature of COVID within nursing homes is confirmed in the latest scientific studies, which hold alarming findings. Below, we highlight the implications of the most relevant research — and how it might influence mitigation efforts moving forward. The Importance…

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Post-Quarantine Fitness And Recreation: Is It Possible to Stay Safe?

Posted By Regan Zambri Long | Posted on: Jun 22, 2020

As the economy begins to open, those with a serious case of cabin fever are eager to resume their usual fitness routines. In many regions, however, gyms and other recreational facilities have been among the last places to become accessible to the public. Even as they open, they remain among the most hazardous locations. After all, ample research indicates that the coronavirus spreads more easily through heavy breathing and exertion. Despite the hazards posed by the gym, it’s still possible to exercise safely. Keep the following considerations in mind as you level up your fitness routine: Stay Safe at the…

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Tips For Staying Safe While Protesting

Posted By Regan Zambri Long | Posted on: Jun 18, 2020

George Floyd’s death may have sparked nationwide protests, but the issues at the center of these gatherings are far from new. If you feel passionate about continued racial disparities and want to do your part, protesting allows you to get the message across. Unfortunately, it’s far from risk-free, especially in a time of COVID-19. Follow these steps to keep yourself — and your fellow protesters — safe. Continue Coronavirus Precautions Technically, the very act of protesting invites the spread of coronavirus. This spread can be limited, however, if you and other protesters follow the usual disease prevention protocol: stay at…

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