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Celebrations during a pandemic? Sure, but let’s be smart on how we celebrate

Celebrations are important, even during a pandemic. However, we should keep in mind that traditional gatherings with family and friends can increase the chances of getting or spreading COVID-19 or influenza and other respiratory viruses. We don’t have to cancel gatherings but we need to re-think our plans again and be a little more creative.

Celebrations are important, even during a pandemic. However, we should keep in mind that traditional gatherings with family and friends can increase the chances of getting or spreading COVID-19 or influenza and other respiratory viruses. We don’t have to cancel gatherings but we need to re-think our plans again and be a little more creative.

First and foremost, we need to limit in-person celebrations because when people get together indoors to eat, drink, talk, shout, singing – COVID-19 spreads. So the safest way to celebrate this year is to celebrate with people within your household (or your social bubble). If you’re wondering what a social bubble is – it’s a small group of people who have agreed to socialize only with each other and take the same precautions.

Basically, the people you regularly and meaningfully interact with and not your Facebook friends list. Experts suggest capping a bubble at about 10 people.

Time to shrink your social bubble | Alaska Department of Health and Social Services

Even if you’re celebrating only with your social bubble, these recommendations that you have already heard mentioned over and over again, are extremely effective if we seriously follow them.

  1. Wear a mask. Wear a mask with 3 layers to stop the spread of COVID-19. The mask should have an inner layer of absorbent material (such as cotton), a middle layer of non-woven material (such as polypropylene), and an outer layer of non-absorbent material (such as polyester or polyester blend). Wear the mask over your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin. Make sure the mask fits snugly against the sides of your face.
  2. Physical distancing – stay at least 6 feet away from others. Always bear in mind that some people without symptoms may spread COVID-19 or the flu. Keeping 6 feet (about 2 arm lengths) from others is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.
  3. Wash your hands properly and frequently. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Keep a hand sanitizer with you and use it when you are unable to wash your hands. Make sure your hand sanitizer contains at least 60% alcohol.
  4. Stay at home if you are feeling unwell to reduce your risk of catching or spreading illness. If your symptoms are severe or you feel like you need medical care (for example, you have difficulty breathing), call before you go to your doctor and describe your symptoms over the phone.
  5. Always check local regulations before attending any gathering.
Your social bubble is not as small as you think | Alaska Department of Health and Social Services

If you decide to celebrate with people outside your social bubble, take steps to make your celebration safer.

  1. Bring your own food, drinks, plates, cups, and utensils,
  2. Avoid going in and out of the areas where food is being prepared or handled, such as in the kitchen,
  3. Use single-use options, like condiment packets and disposable items like paper plates.

If you are hosting a gathering with people outside your immediate household:

  1. Limit the number of guests,
  2. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces and items,
  3. if weather permits, open windows,
  4. limit the number of people in food preparation areas,
  5. ask guests to bring their own food and drink (it’s a good excuse especially if you know that you don’t cook very well )

Here are other suggestions:

  1. Host a virtual party with agreed-upon meals. You can decide to gather via online video link to eat a meal together or play party games. Cook dishes that remind you of home or your childhood.
  2. Choose to support a charitable organization together, raise money, or get involved in helping others in your community, subject to the restriction rules in your area. This can create a sense of belonging and purpose.

While it’s natural to want to be with your friends and loved ones in person, especially during the holiday season, ensuring they are as protected as possible from coronavirus may be the greatest gift you can give each other this year.*

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