By Mark Steffen, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota; John Mach, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at Medica; Abigail Miller, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at PreferredOne; Julia Joseph-Di Caprio, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at UCare; and Patrick Courneya, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at HealthPartners

 

Don’t drink and drive, wear your seatbelt and put on your sunscreen are being joined by wash your hands, wear your mask and stay 6 feet away from others as universal messages this summer from healthcare professionals.

 

As the Chief Medical Officers of Minnesota’s nonprofit health plans, we are adding our voices to this very important advice. 

As the weather gets warmer, don’t let your guard down. Join us in taking care of our family, friends, coworkers, and especially our elders, by following social distancing guidelines and other measures to prevent infection.

As we learn more about COVID-19, we know this virus is most frequently spread between family members and at large gatherings. And the summer months are prime times for get-togethers. 

That’s why if you or someone in your household is having COVID-19 symptoms, like cough, fever, shortness of breath, body aches, sore throat, or the sudden loss of the sense of taste or smell, it is important that everyone in your household isolate away from others. This means staying home and calling a health care provider for advice on testing and treatment.

Wash your hands, wear your mask and remain 6 feet from others. Remember these messages and please join us in doing your part to stop the spread of COVID-19.  The health of all Minnesotans depends on it. 

For more information and resources on COVID-19, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Minnesota Department of Health websites.