(RxWiki News) As the coronavirus pandemic continues, many are wondering how to stay clear of COVID-19 and celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday safely.
This Thanksgiving, celebrations will have to undergo many changes to ensure your family's safety as we continue to deal with the uncertainty linked to COVID-19.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 1 million COVID-19 cases have been reported over the last seven days across the nation.
That's why the agency is recommending that families limit their guest lists to those who live in their homes this holiday season. Furthermore, the CDC advised against traveling because travel may increase your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19. This is especially true with certain modes of transportation in which social distancing is difficult, such as on airplanes and trains.
The CDC said you should consider changing travel plans if you answer "yes" to any of the following questions:
- Are you or someone you will be visiting at an increased risk for getting very sick from COVID-19?
- Is the number of COVID-19 cases high or increasing in your community or where you will be traveling to?
- Are hospitals in your community or your destination overwhelmed with patients who have COVID-19?
Note: These are only a few questions the CDC is recommending that people consider before traveling for Thanksgiving.
A big step toward safety is celebrating holidays virtually or only with members of your own household to help prevent the spread of the virus, according to the CDC.
The CDC continues to recommend social distancing (maintaining six feet of distance from others, or about two arm lengths), face masks and frequent hand-washing. Hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol works as an alternative to washing your hands if water and soap are not available.
Here are a few other recommendations from the CDC:
- Host your meal outdoors if possible. If you have to be indoors, select a location that is uncrowded, ventilated well and not fully enclosed. Consider opening windows and doors for extra ventilation.
- Limit the number of guests.
- Bring your own food, drinks, plates, cups and utensils.
- Limit the number of people in the food preparation area.
- Designate one person to serve food, and use single-use utensils.
- Clean and disinfect areas that are frequently touched.
- Minimize shaking hands and giving hugs. The CDC recommended waving and verbally greeting others.
And here are a few additional ideas you can try this holiday season:
- Host a virtual Thanksgiving meal with friends and family who don’t live with you. Schedule a time where everyone invited can sit down and share a meal.
- Play games with your family and friends virtually.
- Watch the Thanksgiving parades, sports and movies at home.
- Instead of Black Friday shopping, consider shopping online.
- Order delivery or curbside whenever possible.
If you have any questions or concerns, speak with your health care provider.
