Health unit promotes safe Halloween for COVID

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Ghosts and demons planning to celebrate Halloween should keep infection prevention in mind, says the local health unit.

Residents are asked to follow public health measures and keep Halloween gatherings small to limit the spread of COVID-19.

“Most trick-or-treating youth are ineligible for (COVID) vaccines,” Acting Medical Health Officer Dr. Shanker Nesathurai said Wednesday. “To that extent, we must be vigilant in trying to minimize the spread of COVID related to Halloween events.”

The health unit recommends that people not participate in any Halloween activities if they feel ill, have COVID-19 symptoms, even if they are mild, or have been told to self-isolate.

Those who do trick or treat should keep two meters away from people they do not live with and avoid singing or yelling for treats. They should also wear a mask, limit the number of houses they visit, and avoid large groups and parties. Parents should ensure that their child’s costume allows for frequent hand washing or the use of hand sanitizer.

Those who hand out candy should wash their hands thoroughly before doing so. Give treats from a distance using tweezers or by placing them on a table, wearing a mask, and keeping a physical distance from trick-or-treating.

There is no need to clean or sanitize prepackaged treats, the health unit said. Avoid giving homemade treats.

Trick or treating is not the only way to celebrate Halloween. Similar to last year’s Halloween pandemic, the health unit suggests residents try some safe alternatives to COVID, such as creating a home candy hunt, hosting a virtual costume party, enjoying a family night out watching movies of Halloween or carving pumpkins, or delivering treats to the doorsteps of family and friends.

“If you are planning any type of small gathering, knowing the vaccination status of the attendees is an important part of protecting yourself and the people in the gathering,” said Health Unit Executive Director Nicole Dupuis.

“Make sure that if you are sick, you are not participating. For those who are organizing a meeting … be aware of the risks. “

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Reference-windsorstar.com

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