Plan Ahead for Safe Gatherings
The best gift you can give others is to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Here’s how.
When you’re outside of your social bubble (your immediate household members plus a few people you consistently interact with), stay six feet apart. That means keeping your distance from relatives, friends, coworkers—and anyone else who is not part of your close circle.
IT’S NOT ABOUT YOU: Think of it as doing others a favor by reducing the chance that you could unknowingly spread COVID-19 to them if you do get infected but have no symptoms. It can take up to 2 weeks after exposure to develop symptoms… and some contagious people never even know they have COVID-19.
Even if you’re not concerned about your own health, no one wants to be the one to infect someone else. For many people, the illness is mild; but COVID-19 can be deadly for older adults and people with underlying conditions.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Before you RSVP to that party, here are some things to consider:
– Will everyone be wearing masks (except for eating and drinking)?
– Is anyone invited to attend who has a high risk?
– Will guests be asked to stay home if they feel sick?
– Will you be able to avoid hugs and handshakes?
– How many people are expected?
– Is there enough space to social distance?
You can graciously decline an invitation by telling the hosts you’d prefer to get together with them separately (in person or virtually) at another time.
If you do go, have a plan for what you will do if the event makes you feel “overexposed” and uncomfortable.
COVID-19 is the “gift” that keeps on giving when we don’t take the necessary precautions. This year, the best gift we can all give is to keep our germs to ourselves.
Choose Healthy 