Halloween typically calls for celebration, which may involve alcohol use and gatherings. As the holiday approaches, please be sure to keep these facts in mind as we deal with the COVID-19 pandemic impacting the UMBC community and the world at large.
Impact of alcohol on the body
The consumption of alcohol negatively impacts every organ in your body in both the short-term and long-term.Alcohol consumption weakens the immune system, which reduces your ability to combat infectious diseases.Alcohol also has the potential to alter your thoughts and behaviors.
Alcohol consumption and COVID-19
Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to weak vaccine responses and reduce protection.It is best to avoid alcohol consumption altogether to be vigilant of your surroundings.When consuming alcohol, it is impossible to leave your mask on. Without practicing proper physical distancing or mask wearing, the virus can easily spread if you are not vaccinated.
The law
Drinking alcohol under the age of 21 is illegal. Distributing alcohol to underage students is prohibited no matter the student’s age. Consuming or possessing alcohol in public spaces, or under the legal drinking age is prohibited. Violations of the law or campus policies can have serious consequences. For example, possessing a fake ID (false identification) can carry federal and state penalties.
There is no excuse for drinking and driving.
It is illegal to drive while under the influence. While the best (and safest) plan is not to drink, sometimes plans change. Take a ride service, such as Uber, Lyft, or taxi instead of getting behind the wheel while intoxicated or in a car with someone who may have been drinking.
Intervene when people need help.
Know the signs of alcohol poisoning – unconsciousness or semi-consciousness, slow or irregular breathing, and cold, clammy, pale, or bluish skin. If you see a person showing one or more of these symptoms, call the police immediately (911 if off campus, or 410-455-5555 if on campus).
Remove yourself from compromising situations.
If you or a friend find yourselves in a situation where there are too many people in a space to physically distance, step out for your safety.
Get tested if potentially exposed to COVID-19.
If you get notified about a positive COVID-19 case at a gathering you attended, contact Retriever Integrated Health (RIH) at 410-455-2542. COVID-19 testing is available to fully vaccinated, asymptomatic community members.
If off-campus, free tests are available at the Baltimore Convention Center as well as other sites across Maryland. Out-of-state community members are encouraged to explore testing locations near them.
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