As confirmed COVID-19 (coronavirus) cases continue to rise across the country, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued precautions to keep in mind during Thanksgiving gatherings.
The CDC stated that more than 1 million cases were reported in the United States over the last week. During the holiday, the organization suggests celebrating virtually or with members of your own household, which “poses the lowest risk for spread.”
“In-person gatherings that bring together family members or friends from different households, including college students returning home, pose varying levels of risk,” the CDC states.
Those levels of risk depend on the amount of spread in attendees’ communities, exposure during travel, location and duration of the gathering, the number of people present and their behaviors before and during.
There were 2,026 new cases reported in Georgia Sunday, Nov. 22, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health. In Gilmer County, that number stands at 124 new cases from Nov. 8-21.
Gov. Brian Kemp reimposed COVID-19 restrictions with an executive order Nov. 16. Gatherings of more than 50 people remain banned through the end of the month.
People with the virus, those who have been exposed over the past 14 days or have COVID-19 symptoms, should avoid hosting or attending holiday gatherings to limit spread.
The CDC advises to hold gatherings outside and remain at lest 6 feet apart at all times. Face coverings are recommended when not eating and drinking. If indoors, well-ventilated areas are preferred, and windows and doors should be opened as weather and safety allows.
Normal direct interactions such as hugs and handshakes should be avoided between those who are not from the same household. Singing or shouting should be avoided as well, and frequent hand-washing is encouraged.
When it comes to food and beverages, the CDC suggest attendees to bring their own. Food preparation areas should have limited foot traffic, and food should come in contact with the least amount of people possible.
Traveling to one’s Thanksgiving destination may increase the chance of getting or spreading COVID-19.
“Postponing travel and staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others this year,” according to the CDC. “Those who opt to travel should wear a mask in all public settings, avoid close contact, wash hands often and avoid touching one’s face.”
Those who are exposed to COVID-19 during the holiday season should quarantine for 14 days, and the CDC notes, “Consider getting tested for COVID-19. Even if you test negative or feel healthy, you should still stay home for 14 days after your last contact with a person who has COVID-19.
“This is because symptoms may appear two to 14 days after exposure to the virus, and some infected people never have symptoms but are still contagious.”