As protesters across the country voice their objections to statewide stay-home orders and federal guidelines to curb the spread of COVID-19 coronavirus, the country’s top infectious disease expert has a message, the Associated Press reports.

If states reopen their economies too quickly, “it’s going to backfire,” said Dr. Anthony Fauci, during an appearance on “Good Morning America.” Fauci is director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

Unless the virus is under control, economic recovery won’t be able to happen, he said. If states reopen prematurely, there will be another “big spike” in coronavirus cases and “you’re going to set yourself back.”

Some protesters are also calling for Fauci to be fired over the federal guidelines he has crafted regarding the virus.

Last week, protesters executed “Operation Gridlock” around the Michigan Capitol in Lansing to protest Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s updated stay home order that is in effect through April 30. As of Sunday, the total COVID-19 cases in Michigan were 31,424, with 2,391 total deaths.

PREVENTION TIPS

In addition to washing hands regularly and not touching your face, officials recommend practicing social distancing, assuming anyone may be carrying the virus.

Health officials say you should be staying at least 6 feet away from others and working from home, if possible.

Carry hand sanitizer with you, and use disinfecting wipes or disinfecting spray cleaners on frequently-touched surfaces in your home (door handles, faucets, countertops) and when you go into places like stores.

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