FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Media Relations
Statement from APHA Executive Director George C. Benjamin, MD
On behalf of the American Public Health Association, I'd like to wish everyone a joyful holiday season, as well as a happy and hopeful 2021.
It's been a year of unprecedented challenge and enormous loss, which makes it all the more difficult not to gather with family like we usually do. But I urge everyone to celebrate with the safety of our communities — and especially our front-line health responders — top of mind. yes, vaccines are coming, but all signs still point to a devastating winter. I urge everyone to follow CDC's advice, avoid travel, and celebrate the holidays at home with the people in your household.
This year, let's celebrate in solidarity with our hospital and public health workers, in honor of the more than 300,000 fellow Americans who've died, and alongside the families grieving their loss. Each of us plays apart in slowing the spread of COVID-19, and we must not let our guard down.
No matter the holiday traditions you observe, I hope you discover new and safe ways to connect with family and friends, find solace in the season's spirit of peace and giving, and start 2021 with a renewed sense of hope for our future. Happy — and safe — holidays from APHA!
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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.