Safer Ways to Celebrate Holidays

The holidays are here, and while this time of year typically includes family and friend gatherings and traditions, it is important to protect your health and the health of your loved ones.

According to the CDC, the best way to stay safe this holiday season is to get vaccinated, especially to protect those not yet eligible for vaccination such as young children. Click here for general COVID-19 vaccine information in NYC, including where to get a vaccine and booster shot, and more. 

Other best practices from the CDC include:

•  In New York State, masks are required to be worn in all indoor public places unless businesses or venues implement a vaccine requirement. Even those who are fully vaccinated should wear a mask in public indoor settings in communities with substantial to high transmission.
• Outdoors is safer than indoors.
• Avoid crowded, poorly ventilated spaces.
• If you are sick or have symptoms, don’t host or attend a gathering.
• Get tested if you have symptoms of COVID-19 or have a close contact with someone who has COVID-19. Click here for testing info/sites in NYC or visit your local pharmacy to pick up an at-home testing kit. 

If you are considering traveling for a holiday or event, visit the CDC’s Travel page to help you decide what is best for you and your family. CDC still recommends delaying travel until you are fully vaccinated. Please note that if you are traveling internationally, you must show proof of vaccination and a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than one day before travel before boarding a flight back to the United States, with limited exceptions. 

Click here to read more safety tips from the CDC regarding COVID-19 and the holidays. Learn more on the Key to NYC mandate here. Stay safe and healthy!

Photo credit: NPR/Getty Images
Original post: 10.26.21