CDC Releases New COVID-19 Holiday Celebration Guidelines – Safer Ways To Celebrate Christmas

By Centers for Disease Control and Prevention October 19, 2021

Holiday traditions are important for families and children. There are several ways to enjoy holiday traditions and protect your health. Because many generations tend to get together for vacations, the best way to minimize COVID-19 risk and keep your family and friends safer is to get vaccinated if you’re eligible.

Here are safer ways to celebrate the holidays:

Generally:

Protect those who are not yet eligible for vaccination, such as young children, by getting yourself and other eligible people around them vaccinated. Wear well-fitting masks over your nose and mouth if you are in indoor public areas if you are not fully vaccinated. Even those who are fully vaccinated must wear a mask in public indoor settings in communities with significant to high transmission rates. Outside is safer than inside. Avoid crowded, poorly ventilated areas. If you are sick or have symptoms, do not organize or attend a meeting. Get tested if you have symptoms of COVID-19 or are in close contact with someone who has COVID-19.

If you’re considering traveling for a vacation or event, visit CDC’s travel page to help you decide what’s best for you and your family. CDC still recommends postponing travel until you are fully vaccinated.

Special Considerations:

People who have a condition or are taking medications that weaken their immune system may not be fully protected, even if they have been fully vaccinated and given an extra dose. They should continue to take all precautions recommended for unvaccinated people, including wearing a properly fitting mask, until their healthcare provider advises otherwise. You may choose to wear a mask regardless of the degree of transmission if a member of your household has a weakened immune system, is at increased risk of serious illness, or is not vaccinated. If you are meeting with a group of people from multiple households and possibly from different parts of the country, you may want to consider additional precautions (e.g. avoid crowded indoor areas before travelling, do a test) before getting together to further reduce the risk. DO NOT put a mask on children under 2 years of age.

Working together, we can enjoy safer vacations, travel and protect our own health, as well as the health of our family and friends.