The past two years have been far from ordinary. We have all had to learn how to navigate a world with new safety standards and health precautions. From mask-wearing to social distancing and new restrictions on some of our favorite activities, the COVID-19 pandemic has drastically altered our daily habits. Although we have managed to adjust to these “new normals” for some time now, we now have to navigate another holiday season during a global pandemic.
The holiday season translates to celebrations with close friends and family. This year getting vaccinated and following the COVID-19 guidelines below will make it possible to be social and stay safe with your loved ones this holiday season.
General guidelines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for COVID-19 are listed below.
Whether you have been vaccinated or not, individuals should stay home and avoid in-person interaction if they are:
Other Things to Consider:
Holiday gatherings should be as small as possible, and guests from different households are advised to stay at least six feet apart during the celebration. Outdoor gatherings are still preferred over indoor, but if celebrations must be held indoors, it is important to wear a mask and social distance, even if fully vaccinated, to help reduce the risk of transmission. All guests should also wash their hands upon arrival, but hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content will suffice if that is not possible.
When not eating or drinking, guests should wear a mask and avoid contact with others: Though it may be tempting to hug or high-five loved ones you have not seen in a long time, it is essential to limit contact with those who live in a separate household regardless of vaccination
Read more on hgic.clemson.edu