With summer in full swing, health officials are asking people to rethink their summer habits to better protect themselves against the virus.

Dr. Beth Donaldson, medical director and family physician with Copeman Healthcare, outlined a few summer-specific COVID-19 tips for British Columbians.

One of the most contentious issues thatB次元官网网址檚 arisen during the pandemic is restrictions around social interactions. Donaldson said that whenever meeting people or a group of friends, keep it simple and stay outside.

B次元官网网址淩ooms with no circulation have the potential for a higher rate of infection, so when going to a restaurant, being on the patio is the safer option,B次元官网网址� Donaldson said.

B次元官网网址淚f youB次元官网网址檙e going to a friendB次元官网网址檚 house for dinner, ensure youB次元官网网址檙e spacing out the chairs and are only gathering with six to eight people. If youB次元官网网址檙e inside at a gathering, leave the windows open in the summer.B次元官网网址�

Hand sanitizer was one of the hottest commodities in the country at the beginning of the pandemic, but high temperatures can lower its effectiveness.

B次元官网网址淒o not leave your hand sanitizer or disinfectant wipes in your car when the sun is out, as the heat can evaporate the alcohol, leaving them much less effective,B次元官网网址� said Donaldson. B次元官网网址淗and sanitizer also doesnB次元官网网址檛 spread as well in the heat, potentially leaving surfaces on your hands untouched by the sanitizer.B次元官网网址�

Instead, Donaldson recommends keeping a smaller bottle on your person, and to restock a baggy with fresh hand wipes throughout the day so they stay effective in the summer heat.

ALSO READ:

With summer heat comes its less fun side-effect B次元官网网址� sunburns. As people apply their sunscreen, this simple activity may be a inconspicuous way of spreading the virus.

B次元官网网址淏efore lotioning up your face with sunscreen, always wash your hands to avoid the potential spread of the virus around your eyes,B次元官网网址� said Donaldson.

And like hand sanitizer, donB次元官网网址檛 let your sunscreen roast in the back seat of your car during a hot day, as it can cause it to change consistency and reduce its effectiveness.

Lastly, there arenB次元官网网址檛 many things more synonymous with summer than a good old fashioned barbecue. So whenever you may be enjoying one, remember to keep your food to yourself.

B次元官网网址淭hink about individual portions of food and avoid sharing plates,B次元官网网址� suggested Donaldson.