Happy Holidays--With Caution

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We’re all tired of COVID. We’re also only a day away from Thanksgiving. As the holidays quickly approach, please be sure to celebrate with some caution. COVID-19 is NOT gone. In fact it is increasing (again, unfortunately). We are seeing more cases in the emergency department and in many areas of the country. It’s been a while since I posted anything about COVID, but as the holidays approach and cases increase, I only hope to not have a repeat of last year. Last December/January was really bad. So, let’s answer a few questions:

Q: “Can we have holiday gatherings this year?”

A:  This year is different from last year. Vaccinations and testing are widely available. These are VERY helpful, IF you use them. If your whole family is vaccinated, the risk is much lower. If several members of your family/group are not vaccinated, then the risk is higher. See below for some additional suggestions and links.

Q: “What are some other things we can do to stay safe?”

A: The best plan would be to hold your holiday gatherings outdoors, or have everyone wear masks indoors…but I know that would be pretty cold and unpleasant and probably not realistic. So, here are some other things you can do:

  • VACCINATION: Talk with your family members and guests. Have an honest conversation. Being fully vaccinated is the best way to prevent COVID (especially severe COVID) and the best way to prevent spread. If you aren’t yet vaccinated, please do it. Vaccination is how we get back to normal.
  • TESTING: If you or your guest(s) are not vaccinated, consider doing testing immediately before your event. The home COVID tests aren’t perfect, but they act as one additional line of protection. Check out our blog post on COVID Home Tests: https://docosner.blogspot.com/2021/11/home-covid-19-tests.html
  • MASKS: They really do help to decrease the spread of COVID, but I’m realistic, I know it’s pretty messy to eat and drink while wearing a mask.
  •  DISTANCING and VENTILATION: Spread out the tables and chairs, open some windows, turn on a fan or two. These methods aren’t perfect, but anything you can do to keep people from sharing a bunch of virus-filled air will help a bit.

Q: “Won’t my guests think I’m weird if I request testing before the party?”

A: Maybe…but what’s worse: Them thinking you’re a bit paranoid, or you hosting a super-spreader COVID party? We hosted an early Thanksgiving: All eligible people were vaccinated and all tested beforehand. We had a fun and safe Thanksgiving gathering and no one complained…they just ate a bunch of turkey, and way too much dessert…and that’s how it should be.

Have fun this year but please stay safe. I don’t want to see you or any of your family/friends in the ER!


More info and links:

CDC guidance for holiday gatherings: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays/celebrations.html

Our post & videos on home COVID19 tests: https://docosner.blogspot.com/2021/11/home-covid-19-tests.html

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