Health unit offers guidance for COVID-safe Christmas celebrations

Article content

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit has released a series of recommendations for COVID-free celebrations this holiday season.

Commercial

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 press release this week. For those who plan to celebrate or attend the holiday revelries in person, “do not exceed the indoor gathering limit of 10 people and reduce the number of people with whom you are in close contact.”

Those at high risk for more serious 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-level activities. risk, ”Like virtual meetings.

Anyone eligible for a first, second, or third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine should get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Commercial

Article content

“To the best that we can, we have to, as a society and as a culture, live our lives in the most normal way possible, but we also have to follow the restrictions as articulated in the public health instruction letter,” said the medical officer. interim. Shanker Nesathurai Health on Thursday.

“Although there are restrictions on the number of people who can meet in person, there are no restrictions on the number of people who can meet virtually,” he said. “There are still opportunities to call and dialogue with family members that you may not have had interactions with in recent times.”

If you feel unwell or have any symptoms of COVID-19, stay home and do not attend any meetings in person.

Party hosts should ask their guests to complete a COVID-19 self-assessment and not attend if they are ill. The health unit also recommends limiting the guest list to only fully vaccinated people. If you meet people who are not vaccinated, partially vaccinated, or whose vaccination status is unknown, keep a physical distance of two meters from each other and wear a mask.

Commercial

Article content

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, and avoid buffet-style meals 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. Holidays are a time of celebration, but it can also be a stressful experience for many people. “

The health unit suggests taking a break from social media, reading a book or watching a movie to give your mind a break. Also, prioritize time to rest and relax, including getting enough sleep and making time in your schedule to be physically active.

“Spend the afternoons enjoying time with the people in your home. Decorate your home, watch movies, make hot chocolate, celebrate old traditions and create new ones. “

The health unit reported 105 new COVID cases and the COVID-related death of a man in his 70s on Thursday.

Windsor-Essex has 547 known active cases and 27 people who have tested positive are in area hospitals.

The outbreaks remain active in 17 schools or daycare centers, 12 workplaces, four community settings, and two long-term care homes.

[email protected]

twitter.com/wstarcampbell

Comments

Postmedia is committed to maintaining a lively yet civilized discussion forum and encourages all readers to share their views on our articles. Comments can take up to an hour to moderate before appearing on the site. We ask that you keep your comments relevant and respectful. We have enabled email notifications – you will now receive an email if you receive a response to your comment, there is an update from a comment thread you follow, or if a user you follow comments. Visit our Community Principles for more information and details on how to adjust your E-mail settings.



Reference-windsorstar.com

Leave a Comment