FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: APHA Media Relations
Washington, D.C., May 7, 2020 – With the COVID-19 pandemic keeping many people apart this Mother’s Day, traditional celebrations are bound to change. But that doesn’t mean the holiday needs to be any less special, according to the American Public Health Association.
“We can still show thankfulness for and appreciation of all the moms in our life — and that includes grandma, aunts, sisters and special friends,” said APHA Executive Director Georges Benjamin, MD. “We may have to do it a little differently this year, but we can treasure each moment with Mom while being safe, careful and following public health advice.”
While big family gatherings are a no-go this Mother’s Day, people can still share their love and respect for Mom. For those who are keeping safely apart, you can:
- Hold a virtual brunch with Mom. Make a video call or use a service such as FaceTime, SKYPE or Zoom to enjoy a meal together. Dress up and decorate your dining area to make it special. For an extra touch, have Mom’s meal delivered to her.
- Watch a movie or TV show together. Choose something you’ve already seen that is special to you both, or watch something new. You can talk to each other over the phone while you watch, or via video.
- Hold a surprise group videoconferencing call. Invite family and special friends to the call, but don’t tell Mom they’ll all be there. She’ll be surprised and happy to see so many people who care for her.
- If you live nearby, it’s important to resist the temptation to see Mom up close and personal. But you can put on a mask, stay apart from others and decorate her lawn or door with flowers, cards and signs. Or do a drive-by parade, where you and others wave and spread cheer from a safe, healthy distance.
- Take an online class or virtual trip together. From crafts to exercise to virtual tours of parks and gardens, there are many free, fun options online to share together virtually.
- Most moms are just happy to hear your voice and know you care. So even a simple phone call is welcome.
People who are fortunate enough to live with their moms can enjoy being together on Mother’s Day. But just because you’re regularly together, don’t forget to follow public health safety recommendations.
“It’s important that we continue to be careful by washing our hands and covering our face and mouth when we sneeze or cough,” Benjamin said. “We want to share our love on Mother’s Day, not our germs.”
If someone isn’t feeling well — especially if they have a fever, cough, chills or other common symptoms of COVID-19 — separate them from other family members and contact a health care provider, he said.
While Mother’s Day is an especially important time to recognize Mom, APHA works year-round to support the health of mothers and families. For example, the Association called on Congress this month to protect and support breastfeeding during the COVID-19 pandemic. APHA’s Maternal and Child Health Section also develops innovative approaches to address the health needs of mothers, children, adolescents and families.
“The health of our moms is paramount, whether we are in a disease outbreak or not,” Benjamin said. “To all the moms out there, thank you for all that you do to the support your family and community. Have a beautiful Mother’s Day.”
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The American Public Health Association champions the health of all people and all communities. We are the only organization that combines a nearly 150-year perspective, a broad-based member community and the ability to influence federal policy to improve the public’s health. Learn more at www.apha.org.