The Essential Frontline Workers of the Coronavirus Pandemic

Cities across the United States have been taking urgent action to contain the spread of the coronavirus by mandating residents to stay inside their homes. The only exceptions are activities such as shopping for food and medical supplies, providing or receiving care, and outdoor exercising activities - all deemed essential activities.

However, there are essential men and women who are working behind the scenes in the midst of the pandemic to make these essential activities possible. Although the following list will likely vary according to local regulations and concerns, here is a compilation of some of the incredible frontline workers who are taking the coronavirus head-on:

Medical and Healthcare Services

• Pharmacies

• Hospital personnel

• Healthcare providers

• Clinics

• Research and laboratory services

• Dentistry practices

• Optometric practices

• Nursing homes and other assisted-living facilities

• Testing centers

Food

• Grocery markets

• Convenience stores

• Liquor stores

• Restaurants (only for delivery, takeout, and drive-thru)

• Food delivery and courier services

• Farmers and other agriculture services

Transportation

• Gas stations

• Auto supply stores

• Auto repair shops

• Airlines, taxis and other private transportation providers

• Public transportation (e.g. buses, uber, lyft, subway, etc.)

Maintenance

• Hardware stores

• Plumbers

• Carpet cleaners

• Electricians

• Contractors

• Exterminators

• Landscape and pool care businesses

• Construction sites

• Utilities (e.g. water, power and gas, etc.)

• Garbage collectors and recycling services

• Janitors and sanitation workers

• Manufacturing companies

• Warehouse distribution and fulfillment workers

Finance

• Banks

Housekeeping

• Laundromats

• Dry cleaners

Animal Services

• Animal shelters

• Pet supply stores

• Veterinary offices

Public Safety

• Police stations

• Fire stations

• Emergency operators

• Security guards

• Traffic officers

Youth and Childcare

• Educators

• Social workers

• Social welfare services (e.g. housing shelters, food banks, etc.)

Other Frontline Workers

• Mailing and shipping services

• Funeral homes

• News reporters and journalists

• Truck drivers