This year has been anything but business as usual. This holiday season will be no exception. Wall are longing for the love and care that comes with the holiday season, but we must also figure out how to do this safely. While I SO can’t wait to get my holiday on, I also know that COVID is still a very real concern, especially in my area. Having a safe holiday is of utmost importance. So we have to get creative. This guide will help in the planning, execution and aftercare for #holiday2020. Remember that some areas have local laws or regulations that may also affect how you holiday this year. These tips are meant to supplement – not replace – those laws and regulations.
To gather or not to gather, that is the question. Consider the following when deciding if a holiday gathering is right for you.
- Number of
attendees – Smaller gatherings are lower risk. The size of the gathering should be
determined based on the ability to reduce or limit contact between attendees as
well as state, local, territorial or tribal health and safety laws, rules and
regulations. Some areas limit total
number of persons in attendance.
- Local infection rate – Higher levels of COVID-19 and community spread could increase the risk of infection and spread among attendees. Consider the infection rate not only where the event will be held, but also where each guest is coming from.
- Any high risk conditions of participants (host or attendees) – Older adults, anyone with diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, immunocompromised status, pregnancy, are at risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19. These individuals are being advised by the CDC to avoid in-person gatherings with those who do not live in your household. If an individual at increased risk for severe illness does choose to attend an in-person gathering, they should avoid larger gatherings and consider attending activities that pose a lower risk (see below).
- Duration of the event – Gatherings that are longer pose greater risk than shorter gatherings. Some areas mandate that gatherings are 2 hours or less to keep the chance of transmission lower.
- Venue – When possible, outdoor venues are preferred as indoor gatherings generally pose more risk than outdoor gatherings. If the gathering must be indoors, remember that opening windows and doors can help decrease risk by increasing ventilation.
- Weather – Shifting activities outdoors depends a lot on the climate in your area. Fortunately, here in South Texas, our climate supports outdoor activities most of the year, even during holiday time.
After considering these options you should know whether or not an in-person holiday gathering is right for your or if you should opt for remote or virtual gatherings. Whatever you decide, remember to #celebratesafely.
Be well.
Dr. A
