With the holidays quickly approaching, we simply want to extend some tips to help you and your loved ones stay safe this holiday season. It is no debate that the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted just about everything this year, and unfortunately, this winter was not spared. That does not mean that families and friends cannot get together, but it does mean that it must be done in a safe way. Below there will be 5 tips for how to stay safe this holiday season while still being able to see loved ones. 

  1. Do not share food or drinkThis is due to the high transmission level of the COVID-19 virus, and other illnesses, through saliva. It is best to keep drinks and food separate and only share with those you trust and are comfortable with. 
  2. Ask guests if they would be comfortable with or without masksFacial coverings play a huge role in limiting the spread of COVID-19. While they may be a nuisance to wear inside one’s own living space, it can help guests feel more comfortable. 
  3. Keep gatherings smallKeeping gatherings small helps lower the chance of a widespread breakout among the group and allows people to social distance. If you are looking to have a gathering of any size, you could encourage guests to get a COVID-19 test before they come over if they have the means to do so. 
  4. Wash hands frequentlyWhile this has been a mantra since March at the beginning of the pandemic, it has never been more important. After running errands or when getting to someone else’s home, it is always a good idea to wash your hands before you touch too many things. Especially if there are going to be multiple people serving themselves food and drink. 
  5. Wash all commonly touched surfaces after guests leaveWiping down the counters, tabletops, door handles, light switches, and more after guests depart is a great way to kill any virus before it has a chance to sit and fester. This also prevents spreading anything throughout other areas of the living space that otherwise would not have come in contact with anything. 

We hope these tips are helpful and allow you and your loved ones to gather safely. As always, wear a facial covering in public, wash your hands frequently, and stay home when you do not feel well. Hopefully, with everyone working together, we can help alleviate the spread of COVID-19 and save this holiday season.