Gather Safely this Holiday Season

The safest way to gather this holiday season is with others who are fully vaccinated, outdoors, and to wear masks. 

Compared to last holiday season when it was recommended for all to stay home and gather virtually, we have come a long way as COVID vaccines are widely available and free for all. Consider getting a booster shot before the holidays or get vaccinated if you haven’t already to ensure for the safest holiday season. 

We know that many families have holiday traditions that include gathering and enjoying homemade meals. There are steps that we can all take to ensure to limit the transmission of potential illness for all attendees. 

• • Get vaccinated to protect those who are at high risk–such as your grandparents–and those who are not able to be vaccinated–such as your younger cousins. 
  • Wear well-fitting masks that cover your nose and mouth; regardless of vaccination status. 
  • Gathering outdoors is safer than indoors, but if you must gather indoors–keep windows open to increase ventilation and stay 6 feet apart. 
  • If you are sick or have symptoms of COVID-19, do not attend nor host a gathering. 
  • If you have been exposed to COVID-19, get tested and wait to receive a negative result before attending or hosting a gathering. 
  • If you or others will be traveling to the holiday gathering, follow our travel safety tips that include COVID-19 testing recommendations. 
  • Consider postponing the gathering until everyone has a chance to be fully vaccinated. 
  • Have a virtual option to gather in case someone becomes ill or exposed to COVID. 

• • Lay low before attending and/or traveling to a family gathering 
  • Wear a mask for the entire event, besides temporarily to eat or drink 
  • Have hand sanitizer available & encourage others to wash their hands often 
  • Use disposable plates, cups and utensils  
  • Gathering small is safer than gathering large 
  • The longer the gathering the higher the risk 
  • Keep a safe distance from others 
  • Keep a list of all attendees in case someone falls ill after the gathering 

For those who are not fully vaccinated:

• • Get tested immediately. If results are negative, get tested again 5-7 days after exposure. 
  • Being quarantining and self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms. 

If symptoms develop, being isolating immediately. Fill out the self-report and contact Ask-A-Nurse. Even though it is the holidays and we are on break, we are here for you all year long!