Though we all yearn to return to our previous, everyday lives, coronavirus cases are not decreasing, specifically in L.A. County . According to the Los Angeles Times, the county’s positive cases have dropped to 3.7% over the last couple months. However, this number has been interfered with and altered by a large number of coronavirus cases increasing once again.
One contributor to this rising of cases is the openings of jobs or worksites. The L.A. Times states that there have recently been 39 reported worksite outbreaks. Should non-essential jobs be closed again? Another major contributor to this problem is the opening of indoor shopping centers. Indoor shopping centers have high risks of virus transmission, as people are usually packed tightly in overcrowded malls. Though this situation is our new normal, should we still be self-quarantining? Short answer, yes.
Currently, the largest concern for officials is the fast-approaching Halloween holiday, particularly in L.A. County where cases are already high. Though this holiday is beloved by many, it is not an exception to the current coronavirus regulations and citizens should still follow the stay-at-home orders. As stated by the L.A. Times, a surge of coronavirus cases in California happened during Memorial Day, when citizens treated the holiday as if life had gone back to the way it had been before the virus. California Health Officials are concerned that trick-or-treating would have the same outcome, as going to the front doors of multiple people completely defeats the purpose of social distancing. The idea of “trunk-or-treating”, where children go from car to car for treats is also a concern, as it would not decrease the crowd, and still does not adhere to social distancing regulations. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti recommends citizens to celebrate Halloween in a different way and to avoid trick-or-treating. This could include pumpkin carving in your own household, and virtual meetings where people can show their costumes to friends and family.
So what can we do? We can and should listen to the warnings of officials who recommend staying at home. Private gatherings should only occur sparingly and should be limited to no more than three households, held outdoors. California Health and Human Services Secretary Mark Ghaly stated that though enforcement will not be held against those who decide to trick-or-treat, they still have stated the risks of participating in such events and strongly urge less traditional activities. Officials have also stated that walking around while in costume is completely fine, as long as door to door meetings are not held. Overall, adhere to coronavirus and social distancing rules and regulations, wear a mask, and stay careful and safe during the upcoming holidays.
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