The holiday season is here!!!  That means lots of gatherings with friends, family, and coworkers over the next few weeks for most people. Officials are worried that this will exacerbate the growing health crisis they are seeing across the country.  Coronavirus, flu, and other respiratory ailments are on the rise and hospitals are becoming overwhelmed in many states.  So, should we all just stay home and cancel the season’s festivities? NO WAY! But we should keep our health in mind and make the best decisions for ourselves and everyone we love.

Here are some simple, key ways to try and stay healthy this holiday season:

1. If you’re sick, stay home.  Don’t be a Scrooge and ruin everyone else’s season by getting them sick.  If you are sick, stay home.  There are plenty of ways to “be there” without actually being there.  Attend virtually or call while everyone is together and ask to be put on speaker phone.  The family can “go live” so multiple friends and family members who were not able to attend can still witness the festivities.  There is no need to be in person.
2. Wear a mask. If you are older, pregnant, or at higher risk of developing complications with respiratory ailments, consider wearing a mask when you are with the group.  If you feel like you might be getting sick or if you feel fine but have been around someone who is sick, please wear a mask.
3. Follow basic health guidelines.  Aside from wearing a mask, handwashing and regularly sanitizing surfaces is imperative for keeping everyone healthy at gatherings.  Everyone should wash or sanitize their hands regularly and Clorox wipes or Lysol wipes should be kept out and handy for wiping down countertops and frequently touched areas like doorknobs.
4. Have designated servers.  Hear me out.  Select two or three people who love to help and who are known for taking proper health precautions and let them serve everyone at the gathering.  This is much safer (health-wise) than a buffet with everyone touching all the utensils and food.
5. Stay up to date on your vaccines. It is highly recommended that everyone be up to date on all vaccinations, especially flu, pneumonia, and coronavirus.  This may not keep you from getting sick, but it will most likely save you from any crippling effects of these germs.

Stay safe, stay healthy, and enjoy this holiday season!