While the holidays may seem a bit different this year, the Hendricks County Health Department would like to share some guidance on how to safely celebrate throughout the season and shed light on some questions that many people have at the moment.
What Should I do to Stay Safe During the Holidays?
- Physical Distancing: When participating in a holiday celebration, it is essential to continue social distancing, especially indoors. Set up your house so you can physically distance with visitors while they are visiting you and during meals or other times when a mask cannot be worn.
- Wear a mask: Wearing a facial covering when outside of your household can help reduce the risk of COVID-19 spreading.
- Decrease Exposures: Prior to your holiday gatherings, avoid indoor settings with people you do not live with where you cannot socially distance or wear a mask.
- Screen: Before allowing visitors into your home, ask them if they have experienced any of the symptoms of COVID-19 or if they have been sick recently. Those that have experienced the symptoms or have been sick should properly quarantine for the appropriate amount of time before interacting with others. If a high-risk visitor will be visiting, be especially vigilant in social distancing and mask use.
- Practice Good Hand Hygiene and Cleanliness: Wash your hands with warm soapy water for 20 seconds after going in public places, before touching your face, and before eating. Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces to reduce the risk of getting sick.
What are some safe ways to celebrate holidays like Thanksgiving?
- Have a dinner with only people from your household.
- Host a virtual dinner with extended family and friends.
- Hold a small outdoor dinner with family and friends while socially distancing.
Businesses and individuals may download the Mask Up & Carry On signs for free at https://www.visithendrickscounty.com/local/masks/.
While we would all like to celebrate the holidays like usual, it is important we all do our part to ensure the safety of our community, friends and family. For any questions, please contact the Hendricks County Health Department at 317-745-9618.
