More than half of country will be partially reopened by end of the week
Former director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr. Thomas Frieden, said Thursday that some activities can resume around the country because “we’re basically over the worst of this phase of the pandemic.”
“Things are getting better and we can gradually resume some activities,” Frieden said at a coronavirus media briefing sponsored by the Aspen Institute. “On the other hand, we’re getting back, not to normal, we’re going to get back to a new normal. And that’s going to include physical distancing, hand sanitizer, face masks and avoidance … of large gatherings where many people come together in one place.”
When it comes to summer vacations, beach trips are still a go, Frieden said. Social distancing is still necessary, though, he said.
“Yes, in fact, outdoors places are much safer than indoor places. Beaches, parks, bicycling, hiking. These are great things to do. They’re great for the spirit, and outdoors is a great way to reduce risk,” he added. “Now to have a 100,000 people on a crowded beach, that’s a little different, but with sensible precautions, the great outdoors is a great way forward.”
