COVID-19 and Holiday Gatherings: Safety Tips

While many have avoided extended family for most of 2020, doctors say the wait could last into the holidays due to the spike in COVID-19 cases.

Many wonder if it is safe to organize Christmas and have family time.

Experts say in-person holiday gatherings pose a varying degree of risk to people. Doctors say it's not worth the risk.

“You are in an enclosed space and you are going to have to take off your mask to eat and drink.

You will probably be near other people.

Especially for people considered high risk – who experts define as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions, they should avoid gatherings altogether in 2020.

“We know the virus can persist in the air and spread through the air. It doesn't seem like a good idea."

A number of factors determine the level of risk for gatherings, including the community spread of COVID-19 in the city where you plan to meet the family, where everyone is traveling from, the length of time spent together, the behavior of people before the visit and how people behave together.

For example, people living in communities with high caseloads who place little emphasis on health and safety guidelines preventing the spread of COVID-19 have a greater risk of exposing others during a holiday gathering.

Meanwhile, gatherings held in outdoor settings where social distancing guidelines are strictly followed and masks are worn pose a lower risk of transmission.

"The best advice I can give is that if you can try to get tested within 72 hours of meeting other people, that would be ideal."

People considered high risk or living with people considered high risk should avoid large gatherings.

If you or someone you are in close contact with has symptoms of COVID-19, experts recommend that you self-quarantine for 14 days.

Symptoms of COVID-19 may appear two to 14 days after exposure and include fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle aches or pains, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, nausea or vomiting and diarrhoea.

Researchers from Harvard University recently published results with optimistic results for people planning air travel during the pandemic.

According to the study, time spent inside the plane may be safer than everyday activities like grocery shopping or dining out.

“The air in an airplane starts above your head and descends directly to you on the ground. Once it hits the ground, it exits the filters on the side and goes to the HEPA filters.

HEPA filters remove 99.99% of bacteria and viruses from the air,” says Rebecca Spicer, senior vice president of communications at Airlines For America.

Spicer says carriers are taking extra steps to keep customers safe during the pandemic.

“Right away they started demanding masks and they vigorously enforced that.”

Airlines use electrostatic sprayers to clean planes before passengers board. She points out that high-touch areas like seat belts, trays and overhead vents are sterile.

Doctors are optimistic about recent findings, but warn that your time in the tube is only part of the journey.

“We're just talking about inside the plane, but travel involves coming and going from the airport.

Some people take public transport to get to the airport or maybe wait in long lines at security”.

Most US carriers no longer charge change fees if you need to rebook a fare.

"They want to instill in potential travelers the confidence that when you buy that ticket, you have the ability to change your plans."

Although fewer people are expected to travel this holiday season, she recommends getting to the airport earlier. Spicer says many airports have closed parking lots or garages.

You may also struggle to find open vendors once you get past security.

“Put a small snack in your bag, take an empty water bottle. You can fill it in on the other side of the TSA checkpoint,” Spicer said.

The safest option for you and your family is to stay home this winter. Plan virtual get-togethers to reunite with your loved ones.

Currently, there is no approved vaccine for COVID-19. However, experts suggest getting the flu shot as soon as possible.

"We're not only entering another coronavirus peak, but we're also entering flu season."  

In the event of illness, healthy choices beforehand can help you better fight the disease. Doctors recommend eating well, exercising regularly and sleeping well this winter. For people with underlying conditions, make sure your symptoms are well managed.