Be Safe for the Holidays
November 23, 2021With new cases of COVID-19 spiking nationally once again just as the holiday season is upon us, proper precautions to prevent the spread of infection are more important than ever. The coronavirus and flu can spread easily at the sort of large indoor gatherings people look forward during the holidays. Busy shopping malls, crowded airports and large indoor meals can be risky places and activities.
The good news is there are some things you can do to manage or minimize infection risks over the holiday season. The following tips and guidance can help you and your family stay safe.
- Take extra precautions while traveling: wear masks at all time, keep your distance, wash your hands frequently, and minimize contact with others during stops on long drives.
- Readjust your holiday gathering: Plan for smaller gatherings with friends and family who live near you and have been following safe practices. Consider cooking and delivering a meal to a neighbor or friend who may be alone.
- Shop safer: Plan ahead to avoid crowds, shop online if necessary.
- Get vaccinated: Make sure to get your COVID vaccine and booster. They are safe, effective, and can dramatically reduce your risk of contracting COVID and getting seriously ill or hospitalized. And, don’t forget your annual flu shot.
- Get tested: If you think you could have COVID or have come in close contact with someone with COVID, get tested. Fully vaccinated people should be tested 5–7 days after their last exposure. People who are not fully vaccinated should get tested immediately when they find out they are a close contact.
- Wearwell-fitting masks over your nose and mouth if you are in public indoor settings if you are not fully vaccinated. Even those who are fully vaccinated should wear a mask in public indoor settings in communities with substantial to high transmission. Outdoors is safer than indoors.
- If you are sick, stay home: Don’t risk infecting others!