With the holiday season approaching, many people will be traveling or attending gatherings with friends and family. Travel increases your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19. Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. If you must travel, the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) has tips on ways to reduce your risk:
Travel during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Travel may increase your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19. Find out what to consider before, during, and after travel on the CDC’s Travel during the COVID-19 pandemic web page. If you travel, take steps to protect yourself and others from COVID-19 during your trip. Wear a mask, stay 6 feet from others, and wash your hands.
Attending an Event or Gathering
If you’re attending an event or gathering, prepare before you go by checking with the organizer or event venue for updated information about any COVID-19 safety guidelines and if they have steps in place to prevent the spread of the virus. Use social distancing and limit physical contact, wear masks, and limit contact with frequently touched surfaces.
Hosting Gatherings or Cook-outs
Help prevent the spread of COVID-19 when hosting gatherings or cook-outs. Remind guests to stay home if they’re sick, host gatherings outdoors if possible, arrange chairs to allow for social distancing, and don’t shake hands, give hugs, or do elbow bumps.
Visiting Parks and Recreational Facilities
Protect yourself and others from COVID-19 when visiting parks and recreational facilities. Visit areas that are close to your home, avoid crowded parks or campgrounds, stay at least 6 feet away from people you don’t live with, wear a mask, and wash your hands often.