As of July 3, 2020, New Hampshire has confirmed 5,857 cases of COVID-19 infections and 376 deaths (nh.gov). The United States has confirmed 2,916,842 cases and 131,897 deaths as of July 5, 2020 (cdc.gov). Considering the current surge of COVID-19 across the nation, with nearly half of the U.S. halting their reopening plans as new cases swell to record breaking numbers, it is imperative for all N.H. citizens to proactively respond to the call to protect themselves and others by social distancing and wearing masks.

Nurses are concerned about a further surge in COVID-19 cases in New Hampshire. A surge has the potential to bring further stress to our State’s economy and healthcare resources. As citizens of New Hampshire we can all help to mitigate the risks of a surge by practicing social distancing, wearing face masks, and washing our hands regularly. A May 28, 2020 article titled, “COVID-19: How much protection do face masks offer?” by the Mayo Clinic, states, “we know that face masks combined with other preventive measures, such as frequent hand-washing and social distancing, help slow the spread of the virus”(www.mayoclinic.org).

The New Hampshire Nurses Association (NHNA) is committed to protecting and improving the health of citizens of the State of New Hampshire. The virus is predominantly spread through coughing, sneezing, or laughing (respiratory droplets). Hence, the NHNA is reaching out to all citizens asking you to wear a face covering in public and to practice social distancing (staying at least 6 feet from other people). Help us reduce the spread of COVID-19 through use of these measures, regularly.

Nurses have been voted the most trusted profession for eighteen consecutive years. As the largest organization representing New Hampshire Nurses, the New Hampshire Nurses Association feels compelled to voice our opinion with the hope that you will trust our honest and ethical advice which is in the best interest of you, the public, our fellow nurses, and all front line workers.

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