Coronavirus
Headed to the beach? Here’s how the CDC says to avoid the coronavirus
June 20 is officially the first day of summer, and many people are already flocking to beaches despite the coronavirus pandemic. New guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say people should try to stay six feet apart as they enjoy the sand and waves this summer.
Many popular beach vacation spots, including much of the South Carolina coast and Florida, are reporting record numbers of COVID-19 cases as the tourist season goes into full swing.
The CDC’s beach guidelines mirror the recommendations public health officials give for most activities: social distancing, wearing a mask during close contact, and washing your hands.
The CDC says the best scenario to go to the beach is for staff and beachgoers to “stay at least 6 feet away from people they don’t live with.” The guidelines say people should not share equipment, toys, food or other supplies.
The risk becomes much higher when people crowd together, especially if they’re from other cities or states where the outbreak is worse, the CDC said. Freely sharing toys, equipment and food on the beach with people you don’t know makes things even riskier, according to the guidelines.
Beach visitors and staff, like attendants and lifeguards, should stay home if they’re sick, the CDC said.
Beaches should encourage visitors and staff to wear cloth face masks, especially when they can’t stay 6 feet away from others.
But masks should not be worn in the water, the CDC said: “This means it is particularly important to maintain social distancing in the water.”
Staff on beaches should regularly clean and sanitize shared supplies like chairs, umbrellas, kayaks or other rental equipment. They should also regularly clean commonly touched areas like handrails, changing rooms and bathrooms.
Beach managers can also use guides and physical cues like chairs or stakes in the sand to encourage people to stay 6 feet apart, the CDC said.
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