If you haven’t thanked a nurse in your life lately, now is as good a time as ever! Wednesday, May 6 was National Nurses Day, a kick-off to National Nurses Week.

Nassau County recognized the day at its daily coronavirus briefing. Instead of holding it at county offices, officials moved it to Nassau University Medical Center, where the hospital also shared updates on its response to the pandemic.

The county asked that everyone join them in recognizing nurses on the front lines. If you have a family member or friend who is a nurse or just want to express your gratitude to those who risk their own health and safety putting on scrubs, you're encouraged to share your appreciation on social media using #thankanurse.

There are many businesses that are showing their gratitude to nurses as well in the coming days and weeks:

-Chipotle is giving nurses free burritos as it launches its 4HEROES campaign

-Starbucks is offering nurses a free tall coffee (hot or cold) through May 31

-Dunkin’ is celebrating National Nurses Day by giving a free medium coffee (hot or cold) and doughnut to nurses

-BP gas stations are offering a discount on gas to nurses the next time they fill up their tank. You can find out more about that by clicking here

-Crocs is giving away 10,000 pairs of shoes that are popular with nurses. You can sign up for your free pair here

-Snickers is giving nurses an e-gift card to use at Walmart to pick up a free candy bar. Get yours here

MORE: LIVE BLOG - Coronavirus updates from the tri-state area and beyond 

PHOTOS: Coronavirus heroes on the front lines