HERNANDO COUNTY, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Citrus, Hardee, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk and Sarasota Counties urge members of the public to follow guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) during Labor Day gatherings. While out in public, wear a cloth face covering, practice social distancing, and wash your hands often to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The CDC also recommends limiting the size of social gatherings. 

Cloth Face Coverings  

According to the CDC, a “significant portion of individuals with coronavirus” do not experience symptoms. As a result, these individuals can unknowingly spread the virus to those around them. Cloth face coverings can help prevent those who may have COVID-19 and not know it from spreading the virus to those around them.  

The CDC has posted their guidance on cloth face coverings to its website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html. 

Social Distancing 

COVID-19 spreads mainly among people who are in close contact (within about 6 feet) for a prolonged period. By practicing social distancing, you keep a safe space between yourself and other people who are not from your household. To practice social distancing, stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from other people in both indoor and outdoor spaces.  

For more information on social distancing, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/social-distancing.html.  

Handwashing 

Proper handwashing is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your family from getting sick. Washing your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds can prevent the spread of respiratory infections from one person to the next. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol can also be used, but not as a substitute for cleaning hands with soap and water. 

For more information from the CDC on when and how to wash your hands, visit https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/when-how-handwashing.html. 

For more information on how to protect yourself and others from COVID-19, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/.   

For general information on COVID-19 in Florida, visit www.floridahealth.gov/covid-19, email covid-19@flhealth.gov or call (866) 779-6121. 

About the Florida Department of Health 

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.  

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @HealthyHernando. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.