As we move toward the winter season and the end of 2020, COVID-19 cases are once again increasing nationwide, as the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows. We expect there will be waves of coronavirus cases until there is broad immunity across the country, a vaccine is available or a possible treatment with medication is approved.
Surges in Cases Vary by State and May Happen Near Holidays
Our experts anticipate that new surges in cases will likely vary from one area of the country to the next, with case numbers differing in each state depending on a variety of factors. In Florida, for example, we saw COVID-19 peaks in the spring season and in July, and several social factors contributed to these surges.
With the mid-summer peak of cases, contributing factors included the lifting of lockdown orders (when many Florida businesses and the beaches reopened) and large gatherings for holidays like Memorial Day and July Fourth. Now in November, with some of the most-celebrated holidays right around the corner, we may be moving toward another peak.
But most importantly, your AdventHealth care teams are prepared for what’s ahead, and you can count on us to keep you safe.
As Cases Rise, We’re Prepared to Protect You
AdventHealth facilities across the state of Florida — and the country — have handled multiple peaks in coronavirus cases this year. We’re prepared to see you and your family through another wave of cases, offering the kind of care that eases your mind and keeps you protected in more ways than one.
If you feel COVID-19 symptoms or simply need routine health care, we’re ready to take care of you and your loved ones. We’re serving you with extra safety precautions in place at every facility, whether you need an annual physical or immunization or a cancer screening, surgical procedure or mental health care.
Through each new wave of cases, we’ll keep you protected with trusted care, and updated on what to expect and how to stay safe — including when, where and why to get the COVID-19 vaccine, once it’s available.
What to Expect: Continuing Vaccine Trials Through the Rest of the Year
Several national laboratories are currently racing to the finish line to produce the first-generation COVID-19 vaccine. Clinical trials with volunteer participants are well underway to ensure that the vaccine is safe and effective for everyone, and we expect to know more in the coming months.
The more you know about the COVID-19 vaccine, the better equipped you are to make informed decisions for yourself and your family. We’ll share timely updates and clear information about the coronavirus vaccine on our Coronavirus Resource Hub.
Because the vaccine isn’t available yet, safety precautions are still as important as ever — especially as cases increase all over the country. With this in mind, we also know how tiring it is to hear about case numbers and safety measures over and over again. But for as repetitive as this information may feel, now’s not the time to let your guard down.
Amidst Rising Cases, Stay Safe by Being Responsible
“Virus fatigue,” or feeling overwhelmed mentally and emotionally by COVID-19 information, is real. We understand this, but we also want to ensure that you’re staying safe, healthy and well. When you feel “over it,” remember that we can’t go back to normal without your help. It’s up to all of us to slow the spread of the virus, and we can do it, together.
Take Care of Your Physical Health
Do your part to protect yourself and the people around you by:
- Avoiding crowded areas
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Covering your coughs and sneezes
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Greeting others with a wave or verbal greeting
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Monitoring yourself for COVID-19 symptoms
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Staying 6 feet away from others who aren’t household members
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Wearing your face mask in public
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Washing your hands or using sanitizer frequently
Take Care of Your Mind and Spirit, Too
While you continue to practice safety steps that protect your body (and other people’s, too), we encourage you to take care of your mental and emotional well-being. When the “virus fatigue,” feels all too real — or you’re feeling the weight of seasonal affective disorder — take a step back for your mind and spirit.
Whenever you need to, you can:
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Call a loved one, just because
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Find relaxation exercises that you enjoy
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Get some fresh air by walking outside
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Make time for things that make you happy
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Take three deep breaths
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Talk with your primary care doctor about mental health
Discover free mental health resources, find out how to see a doctor from home and much more on the mental health section of our Coronavirus Resource Hub.
We’re Ready to Keep You Protected
Know that AdventHealth is your safe haven, whether or not COVID-19 cases rise in your area. We’ll help you stay on track with the health care you need while supporting you in body, mind and spirit, too. When you need safe, whole-person care or the latest news and information, we’re here for you.
