In the past few weeks, there has been an increase in COVID-19 outbreaks across the world due to holiday and Christmas festivities. Now that new year’s eve is around the corner, the risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2 is even higher than before as the infection has become more common.
As many people will be heading out in different public spaces and attending parties, health agencies including the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention suggest going for alternative ways of celebration.
The year 2020 has been challenging and different in multiple ways. Previous festivals including Thanksgiving and Christmas have also been celebrated with a lot of changes.
Therefore, this new year’s eve, try to implement similar changes in celebration in order to avoid spreading or catching the coronavirus infection.
Instead of going to large indoor gatherings, try to arrange a smaller outdoor meet-up such as a barbeque or bonfire at night. Not only will it be safer but also more economical.
For people who are far away from their family and friends, the safest and best option is doing a video call and talking on the phone.
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During the last few days of the year, avoid going to bars, clubs, and big parties as they have the highest risk of COVID-19 spread. This goes especially for young adults as they are more likely to go out and celebrate the conventional way rather than older people.
While it is understandable that staying at home has become frustrating, it is important to fight pandemic fatigue and the urge to go out. Going out now can contribute to the rising cases of coronavirus, which may prolong the health crisis even further.
Try to inform friends and family about not attending a specific gathering or a party beforehand. This can help in relieving the pressure to attend.
For those who cannot say no to attending a gathering on new year’s, make sure to take all coronavirus precautions strictly the entire time. Wear a mask and try to maintain distance from people.
On the other hand, for those wishing to arrange a coronavirus-safe gathering, make sure to invite a limited number of people for no more than a few hours. Secondly, inform all attendees to take preventive measures during the event to avoid virus spread.
Do not attend or arrange any events on new year’s eve if having symptoms of COVID-19 including coughing, difficulty in breathing, sneezing, fever, and others or after recent exposure to the virus.
Similarly, if the area of residence or celebration has a higher number of coronavirus cases, it is better to skip any events on new year’s eve and choose to stay at home and choose the aforementioned way of celebration.
Keep in mind health is more important than attending a party and should always be the priority.
Going out and celebrating on new year’s eve especially in large, crowded spaces can not increase your risk of contracting coronavirus infection but also your friends and family’s.
