With cases of COVID-19 surging across the country and the number of infections, hospitalizations, and deaths breaking daily records, it has never been more crucial to protect yourself and others. Some states and cities have tightened restrictions, closing up bars, banning indoor dining, limiting occupancy at many establishments, and even the number of people allowed at private gatherings. Others remain open and operating as usual. But no matter where you live and what remains open, keep in mind the old saying: just because you can, doesn't mean you should.
As excited as you may be to visit your favorite local establishments or get together with friends and family over the holidays, it's important not to become lax about the COVID-19 pandemic. Check out these 35 places you're most likely to catch COVID — ranked from least to most risky — so you can better understand the risk associated with your activities. Read on, and to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had Coronavirus.
35
Taking a Walk
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A nice walk outside is a great way to clear your head during this stressful pandemic. But it's still important to follow social distancing and mask guidelines in your area to prevent the spread.
A study published in Physics of Fluids analyzed respiratory droplets from sneezes and coughs. The study found that a human cough can expel droplets from 10 to 250 meters per second. If you're planning to take a relaxing walk, try to choose a path that's not very crowded and always practice social distancing.
34
Hiking
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When you head out to the great outdoors for a hike, you may assume you're safe from COVID-19. But if you're hiking on a crowded trail, you're still at risk. Wearing a face mask and staying six feet away from other hikers reduces your risk. "When you venture outdoors, try to only spend time with people within your household," warns the American Hiking Society. If you follow proper protocol, your risk remains low but it's important to follow your local government's regulations.
33
Going to a State Park or Other Outdoor Areas
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With wide open spaces and outdoor recreation areas, a state park may seem to be one of the safest places to visit during a pandemic. However, there are spots to watch out for as you explore your local state park. Restrooms, visitor centers, or popular attractions may be crowded, making it hard to socially distance.
"Check with the park or recreation area in advance to prepare safely, use social distancing and avoid crowded parks, wear a mask, and clean hands often," the CDC suggests. Consider visiting the state park at off-times and heading to attractions that aren't as popular.
32
Getting Gas
Maridav/Shutterstock
As long as you don't choose a crowded gas station that prevents social distancing, you should be relatively safe pumping gas. However, it's important to consider all the hands that have touched the pump and buttons before you. "Use disinfecting wipes on handles and buttons before you touch them," the CDC recommends. When you're done pumping, use hand sanitizer and don't touch your face until you can thoroughly wash your hands to lower your risk.
31
Shopping at a Farmer's Market
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If your local farmer's markets are open for business, you may assume it's safe since these events are usually hosted outdoors. However, your risk for spreading COVID-19 at a farmer's market is only low if your local government enforces the proper protocol for vendors. Consider how closely your local farmer's market adheres to social distancing and mask guidelines and ensure you feel comfortable with the risk before visiting.
As excited as you may be to visit your favorite local establishments or get together with friends and family over the holidays, it's important not to become lax about the COVID-19 pandemic. Check out these 35 places you're most likely to catch COVID — ranked from least to most risky — so you can better understand the risk associated with your activities. Read on, and to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had Coronavirus.
35
Taking a Walk
A nice walk outside is a great way to clear your head during this stressful pandemic. But it's still important to follow social distancing and mask guidelines in your area to prevent the spread.
A study published in Physics of Fluids analyzed respiratory droplets from sneezes and coughs. The study found that a human cough can expel droplets from 10 to 250 meters per second. If you're planning to take a relaxing walk, try to choose a path that's not very crowded and always practice social distancing.
34
Hiking
When you head out to the great outdoors for a hike, you may assume you're safe from COVID-19. But if you're hiking on a crowded trail, you're still at risk. Wearing a face mask and staying six feet away from other hikers reduces your risk. "When you venture outdoors, try to only spend time with people within your household," warns the American Hiking Society. If you follow proper protocol, your risk remains low but it's important to follow your local government's regulations.
33
Going to a State Park or Other Outdoor Areas
With wide open spaces and outdoor recreation areas, a state park may seem to be one of the safest places to visit during a pandemic. However, there are spots to watch out for as you explore your local state park. Restrooms, visitor centers, or popular attractions may be crowded, making it hard to socially distance.
"Check with the park or recreation area in advance to prepare safely, use social distancing and avoid crowded parks, wear a mask, and clean hands often," the CDC suggests. Consider visiting the state park at off-times and heading to attractions that aren't as popular.
32
Getting Gas
As long as you don't choose a crowded gas station that prevents social distancing, you should be relatively safe pumping gas. However, it's important to consider all the hands that have touched the pump and buttons before you. "Use disinfecting wipes on handles and buttons before you touch them," the CDC recommends. When you're done pumping, use hand sanitizer and don't touch your face until you can thoroughly wash your hands to lower your risk.
31
Shopping at a Farmer's Market
If your local farmer's markets are open for business, you may assume it's safe since these events are usually hosted outdoors. However, your risk for spreading COVID-19 at a farmer's market is only low if your local government enforces the proper protocol for vendors. Consider how closely your local farmer's market adheres to social distancing and mask guidelines and ensure you feel comfortable with the risk before visiting.