Coronavirus: The (unforgiving) Thanksgiving spike in New Jersey

I called Dr. Deborah Goldson's office today to get an appointment and was told all appointments are now virtual because the virus is spiking.  I looked this up and was shocked. 

On July 17th, there were 50 cases. On November 17th, as we call see, there were 4.026. That qualifies as a spike in anybody's book. Couple that with a growing number of infections among my friends, and I would say that the virus is creeping along, relentlessly and inexorably.  

Dr. Goldson gave me sound advice at the beginning of the pandemic, basically to stay home. Don't go food shopping, don't go anywhere. Samuel L. Jackson had that the same advice -- with stronger wording -- in this video (rated: MA, strong language). This hits just as we turn the corner to Thanksgiving, which, even as a reduced gathering, means we would want to go out to the supermarket, etc. I've been going to various doctor visits, thinking I was ahead of the spike, but clearly I was just not keeping a close eye on the pattern. 

What are we to do? 

NYC says: Always keep in mind the “Core Four” actions to prevent COVID-19 transmission: 

• Stay home if sick: Monitor your health and stay home if you are sick except for getting essential medical care (including COVID-19 testing) and other essential needs. 

• Practice physical distancing: Stay at least 6 feet away from people who are not members of your household. 

• Wear a face covering: Protect those around you. Wearing a face covering helps reduce the spread of COVID-19, especially if you are sick and don’t have symptoms. For more information about face coverings, visit nyc.gov/health/coronavirus and look for "FAQ About Face Coverings." 

• Practice healthy hand hygiene: Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available; clean frequently touched surfaces regularly; avoid touching your face with unwashed hands; and cover your cough or sneeze with your arm, not your hands.

I make it the Core Five, and add:

• Follow Dr. Goldson's advice. I'll pass it along to you here.