Celebrate Safely This Holiday Season
The holiday season, with its tradition of bringing families and friends together, is fast approaching. However, as we plan for fall and winter holiday celebrations, how do we keep ourselves and our loved ones safe given the continuing COVID-19 pandemic? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers valuable holiday guidance to help you lower the risk of contracting and spreading the virus.
Celebrating virtually or only with members of your own household poses the lowest risk for spread. However, if you are organizing a larger, more traditional gathering, or planning to attend one, please be mindful of the higher risk of virus spread based on the type and size of the event, as well as strategies in place to help mitigate those risks.
Here are some things you should be aware of:
Community Levels of COVID-19
Higher levels of COVID-19 cases and community spread in the gathering location, as well as where attendees are coming from, increases the risk of infection and spread among attendees.
The Location of the Gathering
Indoor gatherings generally pose more risk than outdoor gatherings.
The Duration of the Gathering
Gatherings that last longer pose more risk than shorter gatherings.
Number of People at the Gathering
Gatherings with more people pose more risk than gatherings with fewer people.
The Behaviors of Attendees Prior to and During the Gathering
Gatherings with attendees who are not adhering to social distancing (staying at least 6 feet apart), mask wearing, hand washing, and other prevention behaviors pose more risk than gatherings with attendees who are engaging in these preventive behaviors.
Locations Attendees Are Traveling From
Gatherings with attendees who are traveling from different places pose a higher risk than gatherings with attendees who live in the same area.