Friends,

The holidays are here, but unfortunately, so is COVID-19. Cases and hospitalizations are on the rise, but we all have the power to help slow the spread and get through this. Wearing a mask and social distancing help tremendously, but the fact is that nearly 212,000 Louisianans have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and hospitals across Louisiana are starting to fill up.

In a statement this week, Governor Edwards expressed his concern: "This third surge we are experiencing is worse than the others, and it is so concerning that the CDC has asked that all holiday travel plans be canceled.'

'This year's holiday celebrations should not look like those from last year. The risk is too great.'

'I know that we want to be together for the holidays, but we need to protect each other and make the sacrifices now so that we can come together when it is much safer." Click here for the full statement in a 2-minute video.

"Remember that outside is safer than inside, and always wear your mask if you are around people not part of your immediate household, wash your hands frequently, stay home when you are sick, and go out of your way to protect the vulnerable."

We've done it before and we can do it again. Please, do your part this holiday season to slow the spread. Together, we can keep friends, family and our healthcare and essential workers safe so that we can all celebrate many holidays to come.

For more information from the Louisiana Department of Health, click here.

Thanks for doing your part. Together, we will have a stronger Louisiana.

-The Team at A Stronger Louisiana

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