Home for the Holidays
Most of us look forward to family gatherings around the holidays. This year, we might even be missing that annoying relative from out of state.
But a recent Boston Globe article featuring CHA's Dr. Lou Ann Bruno-Murtha says "we all need to fight the urge to become complacent."
Here's why:
- COVID-19 rates are rising across the country and we are starting to see a second surge in Massachusetts. As the pandemic wears on, people just want it to go away. This can lead to people being less careful and more people getting sick.
- We’re heading into flu season, which could burden an already stretched healthcare system. (Get a flu shot).
- Gathering indoors is risky. It’s harder to stay six feet apart and air flow is more stagnant, increasing risk of transmissions.
- Interstate travel can spread the disease. Staying at home is the safest and best way to protect yourself and others.
Public health officials recommend us to keep family gatherings to our immediate household. It is the safest way to celebrate this year.
If you are determined to get together with extended family or a larger group, you should take precautions. "Everyone must be respectful and accountable for wearing the correct mask (no valves, gaiters or bandanas), staying 6 feet apart and regularly washing hands in order to prevent disease," explained Dr. Bruno-Murtha. "We especially have an ethical obligation to protect older adults and individuals at greater risk."
We should also follow statewide interstate travel restrictions, gathering size restrictions and review expert advice like holiday guidelines from the CDC.
It’s understandable to want to get together with family and friends, but we’re not there yet. Remember, this is serious. If an exposure happens, it can kill someone.
So let’s be careful this year to make sure everyone will be there for next year’s celebrations.
Disclaimer
This articles provide general information for educational purposes only. The information provided in this article, or through linkages to other sites, is not a substitute for medical or professional care, and you should not use the information in place of a visit, call consultation or the advice of your physician or other healthcare provider.