Celebrating Independence during a pandemic

As July 4th weekend kicks off the number of U.S. confirmed Coronavirus cases has risen to a record high. Americans eager to enjoy the weather and get social have been getting inconsistent advice on how to gather safely from US officials — starting at the top.

More than 52,000 cases were reported on Thursday, according to an online tracker published by Johns Hopkins University.

This was the status of the nation as U.S. Pres. Donald a Trump participated in two crowd intensive events . On Friday he spoke to approximately 7500 at Mt. Rushmore. By Saturday on the datE of America’s birth he will address thousands more at the Salut to America — each gathering mask optional. Surgeon Gen.Jerome Adams walked back his earlier recommendation that masks were unnecessary saying health experts now recognize the virus is asymptomatic and people should wear a mask to lessen the spread.

If the sun is shining, grills are going to be ablaze around the country, but given the current situation this year will be a different experience requiring adjustments to how we celebrate Independence Day. Here are a few tips and ideas:

The first tip the CDC offerF for how to celebrate “the fourth” safely is connecting virtually. For example, play games online or chat via Zoom video. Their tips range from staying home to what you should do if you are going to be in a crowd and keeping your distance during an outdoor gathering. Visit cdc.gov to see those recommendations.

When it comes to eating, consider a potluck. Everyone gets to bring what they wish, knowing how it was prepared without sharing.

Hosting a gathering? Have sanitizer and some form of face covering on hand at all times and encourage everyone to use them. Disinfect surfaces and use all disposal table clothes, eating and serving utensils.