Spread Cheer This Holiday Season, Not Infections!

Yasmina Ahmed, M.D. • December 17, 2021

Spread Cheer, Not Infection.....

As family and friends gather to celebrate the holidays this season, here are 10 important tips to keep our loved ones safe. 


1. Wash your hands often: Washing your hands with soap and water for at least 30 seconds can help prevent the spread of infection. 


2. Get vaccinated: Vaccinations prevent the spread of disease and save lives. The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to get the flu vaccine and the COVID vaccine. Additionally, with the emergence of the COVID omicron strain obtaining a booster dose of the COVID vaccine can further curtail the spread of COVID. If guests are unvaccinated, they should be encouraged to wear masks indoors.


3. Travel during the holidays: Please wear a mask at all times while traveling. Masks are required on planes, trains and other forms of mass transportation even if you are vaccinated. 


4. Keep gatherings small: Plan smaller gatherings with friends and family who have been following safe practices. Virtual holidays via Zoom are a great way to share in the holiday cheer with friends and family who are unable to travel this year. 


5. Holiday shopping: Avoid crowds this season and opt for curbside pickup or online shopping to reduce unnecessary exposure. If you plan to shop in person, you should wear a face mask and shop during the off-hours.


6. COVID testing: Get a COVID-19 test before and after you attend a gathering or travel. This is particularly important if you will be with others who are at increased risk of developing severe COVID-19. 


7. Celebrate outdoors: If weather is permissible, try to plan for gatherings outdoors and instruct your guests to bring warm clothes.


8. Avoid sharing your food: Do not share plates, utensils or glasses. 


9. Stay home if you are sick: If you develop symptoms such as cough, fever or runny nose, please stay home and avoid any non-essential travel. 


10. Follow the rules: Check local, state and national COVID-19 guidelines regularly to make sure you are compliant. 


Happy Holidays!


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