Missouri continues to see record high numbers of new COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. Experts are predicting that infection rates and hospitalizations will continue to rise following Thanksgiving travel and holidays. Local public health experts with the One for All Missouri campaign are urging Missourians to do everything possible to stop the spread after Thanksgiving.
- This high prevalence of COVID-19 cases means it is very likely that Missourians who attended Thanksgiving gatherings without masks or traveled for the holiday were exposed to COVID-19.
- The more people you gathered with, the more likely it is that someone in your group has or had COVID-19
- If you were exposed to COVID-19 over the Thanksgiving holiday, you could unknowingly spread the virus to others. Assume you are carrying the virus and take steps to stop the spread.
- Stay home as much as possible.
- Limit your outings to only necessary trips. If you must go out, wear a mask.
- Do not visit with people outside your household, especially people who are older or have underlying health conditions.
- Wash your hands frequently, with soap, for at least 20 seconds.
- Remember that you could be contagious even if you do not have symptoms. The CDC reportsthat over 50% of COVID-19 transmissions come from people who are asymptomatic or presymptomatic.
- Get tested for COVID-19 5-10 days after you were exposed.
- It is very important to get a viral test at the right time. If you get tested too soon, the results may not be accurate.
- COVID-19 testing can be done in doctors’ offices, urgent care facilities, pharmacies, or temporary drive-thru sites. Work with a healthcare provider you trust to identify an option that works for you.
- Stay home and stay away from others to avoid spreading COVID-19 while you wait for results.
- A negative test means you were probably not infected with COVID-19 at the time you were tested. You could still become infected and pass the virus to others. Continue taking steps to stop the spread.
For more information about how to #stopthespread during the holiday season, visit our website at oneforallmo.com or connect with us on Facebook and Twitter. One for All Missouri campaign representatives are available to discuss in more detail.