Safeguarding Yourself During In-Person Voting in a Pandemic

Strategies for ensuring safety while casting votes amidst a pandemic

In this fast-paced world, as the U.S. presidential election looms and the globe grapples with a pandemic, we're all wondering how to exercise our democratic right to vote without putting ourselves and others at risk. So, here are some practical tips and advice to help you out.

Voting is more than just a democratic right; it's a powerful tool that lets us shape the course our country takes when it comes to economic, healthcare, and foreign policies. This year's election, particularly due to the virus outbreak, has sparked plenty of debate and discussion.

While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have outlined safety guidelines for polling stations and workers, there are things voters can do to keep themselves safe.

Casting Your Vote In Person

Before heading to the polling station, make sure you're feeling healthy and symptom-free. If you feel well, it's typically okay to vote in person, provided you take certain precautions.

First, double-check that you have all the necessary paperwork for voting in your area. Fill out any forms ahead of time, if possible, to save time and minimize standing in line.

To reduce waiting time, consider voting early if that's an option in your area. For those voting on election day, visiting the station during off-peak times might help cut down on waiting time.

Make sure you follow all CDC advice, such as maintaining a 6-foot distance while waiting in line and keeping hand sanitizer with you. Clean your hands before and after visiting the polling station, whenever possible, and use hand sanitizer before and after touching any surfaces.

Wearing a face mask or other face covering in public settings, including at a polling station, is crucial for preventing spread of the virus. Children under 2, those with difficulty breathing, and people who are deaf or hard of hearing should not wear face coverings.

Lastly, consider bringing your own black ink pen and electronic stylus to the polling station instead of using provided ones, but confirm this is allowed in advance, as not all locations permit it.

When asked about safe voting practices, Healthline advisor Dr. Angela Bell emphasized the importance of "voting early" and "wearing a mask, maintaining distance from others when possible, using hand sanitizer, and considering eye protection like goggles if you live in an area with high virus cases or no mask mandate." She also suggested bringing comfortable shoes, a portable chair for long lines, and being familiar with your ballot ahead of time to minimize time spent making choices in the booth.

Voting by Mail-In Ballot

Another option is voting by mail, but this may not be available in all states. If it is, you may still be able to deliver your ballot to the polling station in person.

If you choose to drop off a mail-in ballot in person, follow the same precautions as for in-person voting: wear a mask, maintain social distancing, and sanitize your hands after touching any surfaces. Only go to the polling station if you're in good health, as those who feel unwell should avoid being around others to protect themselves and others.

Strategies for maintaining safety during polling during a health crisis

For those who can't vote in-person or by mail, they may be able to vote through an absentee ballot, which varies by state. Check your state's specific requirements here.

The Impact of Voting on Healthcare

While voting may seem disconnected from health issues, it can have a profound impact. Research shows that certain groups are less likely to vote than others, and these disparities can perpetuate isolation and limit opportunities.

Voting can influence the quality and availability of healthcare, and this year's U.S. elections have healthcare high on the agenda. Researchers from the Kaiser Family Foundation have pointed out that healthcare is a top concern for U.S. citizens in the lead-up to this year's presidential election, with topics like Medicare, the Affordable Care Act, and healthcare costs taking center stage[1].

So, let's exercise our right to vote, make our voices heard, and work towards a brighter future for healthcare. If you need help checking your voter registration status, registering to vote, or finding your polling place, the non-profit, nonpartisan organization VoteAmerica can assist you here. They can also help you vote by mail, request an absentee ballot, or find election information specific to your area.

Stay safe out there, and remember, your vote matters.

References:

[1] Kaiser Family Foundation. "Health Issues Top Concerns for Voters in 2020." August 25, 2020. (Link)

[2] Center for American Progress. "Top 7 Falsehoods about Vote By Mail." August 20, 2020. (Link)

[3] National Conference of State Legislatures. "Mail Ballot Policies by State." September 10, 2020. (Link)

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Keywords: Voting, pandemic, safety guidelines, in-person voting, mail-in voting, absentee ballot, Healthline, Kaiser Family Foundation, healthcare, Medicare, Affordable Care Act, polling station, health disparities, voter registration, polling location, masks, hand sanitizer
Other Tips:
If you have a disability, be aware of any accommodations your polling location may provide, such as curbside voting or accessibility equipment like wheelchairs.
Check to see if your state offers online voter registration. It's convenient and may help reduce the number of people at polling stations on election day.
If you're experiencing homelessness or lack a traditional address, research for organizations like the National Coalition for the Homeless that may be able to help you vote.
If you're overseas, be sure to check the overseas voting process and deadlines for your state.

Protecting oneself from other viral infections, besides COVID-19, is essential, especially when visiting public spaces like polling stations.
As the public debate over healthcare policies in the upcoming U.S. elections intensifies, it is crucial to understand the potential impact of deprecated infection control measures on health outcomes.
In the rapidly evolving landscape of science and health-and-wellness, it is essential to stay updated on the most recent recommendations from Healthline advisors and organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding safe voting practices.
To help shape the future of healthcare policies, it is important that all eligible citizens, particularly those from underrepresented groups, exercise their right to vote in the upcoming election.