As the season for social gatherings begins, please celebrate holidays and festive occasions with loved ones safely, says Durham Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Robert Kyle.
He said the season has begun for social gatherings and get-togethers to celebrate holidays, such as Thanksgiving. “As residents plan to gather with friends and family, they should be aware that many of these gatherings have the potential to increase the risk of Covid-19 transmission. Now that most eligible residents are fully vaccinated, we can enjoy more in-person gatherings; however, Covid-19 is still spreading in our community and we should all ensure that our gatherings are as safe as possible for all attendees, especially our younger family members who may be unvaccinated, individuals that are partially vaccinated or those who are immunocompromised or at high-risk of severe disease and/or exposure to Covid-19,” he said.
He pointed out if residents would like to have an in-person gathering, there are guidelines available at durham.ca that they may follow to ensure the gathering is as safe as possible. Gatherings must adhere to the measures and restrictions outlined in O. Reg. 364/20. At this time, a gathering cannot have more than 25 people indoors or 100 people outdoors. Outdoor gatherings are safer than indoor gatherings. When gathering outdoors with a group of fully vaccinated individuals, face coverings and physical distancing are not necessary. However, if there are people from multiple households who are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated or vaccination status is unknown, then wearing face coverings should be considered. When gathering indoors with fully vaccinated individuals, you may consider removing face coverings if everyone is comfortable. If people from multiple households are gathering and some are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated, or their vaccination status is unknown, it is recommended that everyone wear a face covering and physically distance. For greater safety, if gathering indoors, open windows whenever possible or consider using outdoor spaces.
Virtual gatherings or events are still the safest way to celebrate, especially if people in the group are unvaccinated or if their vaccination status is unknown. As always, anyone with symptoms, even mild symptoms, regardless of their vaccination status, should stay home. Whether you are holding a social gathering or attending one, we each can do our part and continue to follow public health measures to protect those we care about.
“I wish everyone a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving and upcoming holiday season!” Dr. Kyle added.
Check out these tips to assist when gathering with friends and family: durham.ca/novelcoronavir #HappyThanksgiving