Celebrating the Holidays Safely

Add safe COVID protocols to your family traditions

Higher vaccination numbers and lower transmission rates will make family gatherings possible again this holiday season. But the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns us not to become complacent in our efforts to end the COVID-19 pandemic. As generations gather to celebrate and enjoy being together again, it is very important for us to continue to protect ourselves and each other from infection. There is nothing more traditional than keeping your loved ones safe during the holidays.

Continue practicing COVID safety

Here are some of the things we can and should do to have a healthy holiday season:

• Get vaccinated. It’s the best way to minimize COVID-19 risk and protect those in your family who are not vaccine eligible.
• Wear your masks — properly. That means over the nose and mouth, especially if you are not vaccinated. If you are vaccinated, still wear a mask in public indoor settings.
• Avoid large crowds. Being with lots of people in a poorly ventilated area increases your chances of being infected.
• Don’t risk exposing others. If you are sick or have symptoms, don’t host or attend a gathering.
• Get tested. This is especially important if you think you were exposed at any time or if you are feeling ill.

Travel safely this holiday season

If you are thinking about traveling for the holidays, we encourage you to follow CDC guidelines for domestic and foreign travel. We highly encourage getting fully vaccinated before traveling, and wearing a mask on public transportation or in crowded public areas, whether inside or outside, regardless of your vaccination status.

We can do this

Getting back to our holiday traditions of gatherings, dinners and parties will make this season more special than ever before. Working together to protect each other from COVID-19, especially by getting vaccinated, using masks and practicing social distancing, we can all enjoy a happier, safer and healthier holiday season.

For more information and additional tips for celebrating the holidays safely this year, visit CDC’s website.