Article content
The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit has released a number of recommendations for COVID-safe celebrations this holiday season.
Advertisement
Article content
In an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19 residents are encouraged to host virtual parties — “the safest way to celebrate,” the public health unit said in a news release this week. For those planning to hold or attend festive shindigs in person, “do not exceed the indoor gathering limit of 10 people and reduce the number of people you are in close contact with.”
Those at a high-risk of more severe health complications associated with COVID-19, such as older adults and those with medical conditions, should further limit the number of people they come in close contact with and only engage in “low-risk activities,” like virtual gatherings.
Anyone eligible for a first, second, or third dose of COVID-19 vaccine should get vaccinated as soon as possible.
Advertisement
Article content
“As best as we can, we have to, as a society and as a culture, live our lives as normally as possible, but also we have to follow the restrictions as articulated in the public health letter of instruction,” said acting medical officer of health Dr. Shanker Nesathurai on Thursday.
“Although there are restrictions on the number of people who can gather in person, there’s no restriction on the number of people gathered virtually,” he said. “There still are opportunities to call and have dialogue with family members that perhaps you’ve not had interactions with in recent times.”
If you’re feeling unwell or have any COVID-19 symptoms, stay home and do not attend any in-person gatherings.
Those hosting parties should ask their guests to complete a COVID-19 self-assessment and not attend if they are sick. The health unit also recommends limiting the guest list to only fully vaccinated individuals. If you’re gathering with people who are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown, maintain a physical distance of two metres from one another and wear a mask.
Advertisement
Article content
Wash hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, and avoid buffet-style dining with shared utensils.
“While protecting our community from COVID-19 is extremely important, we must not forget about the impact of the pandemic on mental health,” the health unit said. The holidays are a time for celebration but can also be a stressful experience for many people.”
The health unit suggests taking a social media break, picking up a book, or watching a movie to give your mind a break. Also, prioritize time for rest and relaxation, including getting enough sleep and making time in your schedule to be physically active.
“Spend evenings enjoying time with those in your household. Decorate your home, watch movies, make hot chocolate, celebrate old traditions and create new ones.”
The health unit on Thursday reported 105 new COVID cases and the COVID-related death of a man in his 70s.
Windsor-Essex has 547 known active cases, and 27 people who have tested positive are in area hospitals.
Outbreaks remain active at 17 schools or daycares, 12 workplaces, four community settings, and two long-term care homes.
Health unit offers guidance for COVID-safe holiday celebrations - Windsor Star
Read More
No comments:
Post a Comment