Backyard Labor Day parties bring COVID-19 concern, doctors say

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Doctors say people have been listening to state guidelines, wearing masks, and social distancing. Dr. Matthew Thompson is an emergency physician at Telescope Health. He says fewer people have been coming in with COVID-19 symptoms.

After Memorial Day and the Fourth of July, Dr. Thompson says there’s a possibility of another spike.

Doctors aren’t concerned about beaches and restaurants, but rather backyard Labor Day parties and cookouts.

Dr. Thompson recommends keeping parties to 10 people and under, and to keep them outside. Don’t share food, maintain social distancing, and wear a mask if you go inside.

The COVID-19 positivity rate is higher than in March, so doctors say the last thing we need is another spike of COVID-19 before the fall and flu season.