Remember back in March when we thought the coronavirus pandemic would surely be over before summer? Not only did that not happen, but as the holidays approach, we’re still in the midst of a raging pandemic with cases surging and new lockdown measures being enforced.

There have been over 54 million COVID-19 cases in the world, and over 11 million of those cases have been in the United States. There have been over 1 million COVID-19 related deaths in the world, and almost 250,000 have been in the United States.

Just this past week, the United States recorded over 1 million new COVID-19 cases. Let that sink in. One million new cases in 1 week. Thirty-eight states reported 1,000 new cases on Saturday alone. That’s a lot of new cases, and this trend is definitely one we do not want to see continue. 

Some of these cases are bound to be more severe than others, but it’s important to note that right now there are about 70,000 people in hospitals in the United States being treated for COVID-19. It’s also important to note that some cities do not have any more ICU beds available. These include cities in Mississippi, Oklahoma, Texas and Wisconsin.

In response, some states have issued new and stronger lockdown measures. For example, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has stopped in-person high-school and college classes and indoor dining at restaurants and bars. She has also ordered non-essential businesses like theaters and gyms to close.

Meanwhile, in Washington state, Governor Jay Inslee announced new restrictions which include closing theaters, museums, gyms and indoor dining at restaurants. He has also prohibited members of different households from visiting each other unless those members get a COVID-19 test that comes up negative for the virus and unless they also quarantine for a week before their visit.

Today is the most dangerous public health day in the last 100 years of our state’s history. A pandemic is raging in Washington. Today, we are taking action to stop it. https://t.co/p7IWK3GFUG

— Governor Jay Inslee (@GovInslee) November 15, 2020

The west coast states of Washington, Oregon and California all issued travel advisories urging residents not to travel out-of-state and to self-quarantine for 14 days if they return from another state.

With Thanksgiving fast approaching, health experts are concerned that COVID-19 cases will spike even higher. The CDC recommends avoiding a traditional indoor Thanksgiving gathering with family and friends. Instead, consider celebrating with just the members of your household or try hosting a virtual Thanksgiving gathering.

Has your state issued new lockdown measures?