As New Yorkers Prepare to Travel and Gather for Memorial Day Weekend, State Health Department Reminds People to Take Common Sense Precautions Against COVID-19 and Practice Water and Sun Safety for a Safe Celebration

COVID precautions include considering wearing a mask indoors when gathering in high-risk areas, getting tested following symptoms/exposure, and seeking treatment or staying home if COVID-positive

Practice summertime safety while swimming and enjoying the outdoors

ALBANY, N.Y. (May 27, 2022) – The New York State Department of Health reminds New Yorkers heading into the Memorial Day weekend to celebrate safely and keep practicing COVID-19 precautions like social distancing and proper hygiene, holding events outdoors and considering wearing a mask indoors, especially around those at-risk and when traveling to high-risk areas. As always, both swimming and sun safety is also recommended.

"Memorial Day, and the weekend events that surround the holiday in the company of family and friends, are a time to remember our service members who sacrificed themselves to protect our country and safeguard our freedoms," said State Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett. "However, while we are gathering, it's important to continue COVID-19 prevention efforts through social distancing or wearing a mask when indoors, especially around those at-risk. As vaccination remains our best tool for avoiding severe illness and children aged 5-11 are now eligible for boosters, please make a plan to complete your vaccination series as soon as possible."

The Department urges all New Yorkers to complete their initial COVID-19 vaccine series, get boosted when eligible, get tested when not feeling well or potentially exposed—including after traveling or being at events—and to contact a health care provider following testing positive to discuss eligibility for treatments.

New Yorkers are reminded that COVID-19 treatment works best when it is taken within 5 days of the onset of symptoms. When symptoms arise, don't wait to get tested, and don't wait after a positive result to call your health care provider. New Yorkers are encouraged to check COVID-19 case rates and new hospital admissions which are updated publicly for their community or when traveling to other areas.

Additionally, state mass vaccination sites are administering vaccine, booster and additional doses for children five years and older. Parents and guardians can also visit vaccines.gov, text their ZIP code to 438829, or call 1-800-232-0233 to find nearby locations.

The New York State Department of Health reminds all New Yorkers that COVID-19 remains a public health risk to individuals of all ages. Short-term side effects of COVID-19 may include flu-like symptoms, fatigue, trouble breathing, fever or chills, muscle and body aches, and more. Severe symptoms can lead to serious illness and hospitalization. New Yorkers who are not vaccinated or up to date with vaccinations are at increased risk of developing severe disease.