Kicking Covid to the Curb: Navigating Illness During the Holidays

Although Covid-19 restrictions have been largely lifted across the country, some people may still be wary of gathering during the holidays. Luckily, there are plenty of ways you can stay safe while still spending quality time with your loved ones this holiday season.

One of the best things you can do to prevent the spread of illness this holiday season is to frequently wash your hands. The CDC recommends washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Scrub the front and back of your hands, and make sure you get in between those fingers, too.

Handwashing is especially important if you’re in charge of the holiday cooking this season. The last thing you want is to spread germs through your grandma’s favorite pie recipe.

While Covid restrictions have lifted and people are looking forward to a relatively “normal” holiday season, some of your friends and family may not be quite ready to jump back into the festivities. If someone on your guest list elects not to attend due to Covid worries, be sure to be respectful of their wanting space.

You can still include them in the holiday fun by connecting with them virtually. Game services such as Jackbox have a number of fun games you can play with your family, whether in person or long distance. All you need is your phone and a screen.

Nobody wants to miss out on the holiday fun, but if you aren’t feeling well, it’s best to stay home to avoid getting your loved ones sick. But there are plenty of ways to participate in the holidays virtually.

You can use Zoom or FaceTime to connect with your friends and family across long distances. Or, if you plan far enough in advance, you can even have a virtual gift exchange for the holidays. You can mail gifts to one another and use a video chat platform to open them together, or you can even talk with them while cooking your favorite holiday dishes in unison—being separated doesn’t have to mean you’re alone.

Regardless of how you decide to celebrate this year, Hancock Health wishes you a safe and healthy holiday season.