ALABAMA, USA — Celebrations and protests were sparked across the nation after Joe Biden was projected to win the 2020 election.
Many health officials are concerned COVID-19 was spread at those large gatherings as people chanted, shouted and hugged.
Most of those gatherings were held in major cities in the U.S., but health leaders in Alabama say large gatherings in the state could result in another surge in COVID-19 cases.
Dr. Karen Landers with the Alabama Department of Public Health said, "Take the measures that we've talked about for so long, and in addition, always be aware of your own health status. Every day, be aware of how you feel, whether or not you have signs or symptoms compatible with COVID."
It's recommended to avoid big groups all together, but if you plan on being part of a large protest or gathering, remember to social distance, sanitize, and wear your mask.
"Persons have a right to express their opinions, and that's what it's all about being an American," said Dr. Landers. "I do remind people that in all activities you engage in, whether you are going out to shop, whether you're going to the grocery store, whether you are going to work or any other activity that is outside of your home, you certainly need to be aware of social distancing, and right now, it's still 6 feet."
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a plethora of information on how to protect yourself and other from the coronavirus.
The virus can easily spread from person to person, so the CDC recommends you stay at least 6-feet apart from people not in your household. The virus is spread through respiratory droplets that are produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, breaths or talks, according to the CDC. Because of this, the CDC recommends you wear a cloth facemask when around others and in public.
Additionally, the CDC recommends that you frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Symptoms to look out for include fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, a sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting and diarrhea, according to the CDC.
Click here to find more COVID-19 information from the CDC.
If you suspect you have the coronavirus, you should seek out testing and self-quarantine.
Click here to find more COVID-19 information from the Alabama Department of Public Health.