Celebrating Holidays with COVID-19 in Our Lives

Holiday season is here, and traditional holiday celebrations normally bring public and family gatherings, formal dinners and more chances for exposure and risk of getting or spreading COVID-19 to others. Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) has prepared the following tips to help you celebrate the holidays more safely this year. For more information about safer holiday celebrations, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html..

*Remember: The safest way to celebrate is with those who live with you! Avoid gatherings with people who don't live with you. 

Winter

General Tips

  • Always follow local public health requirements and guidelines. Find information about state and local public health orders here.
  • Stay at home if you are sick. If you have symptoms of COVID-19, get tested and self-isolate until you receive a negative result. If your test is positive, continue to self-isolate according to guidelines from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
  • Avoid in-person gatherings with people who don't live with you— Limit your celebration to those who are in your household or consider virtual options for your celebrations!
  • Avoid large crowds at all times (e.g., shopping in stores just before, on or after holidays; parades that draw crowds, etc.).
  • Assess the risk. Always consider community spread and the current number of cases in your area. Find information about COVID-19 in Jeffco here.
  • Get your flu shot. There are many locations in Jeffco to get your flu shot this year. You can also visit www.vaccinefinder.org.
  • Know your travel risks, or be willing to cancel travel plans altogether.
  • Travel is not recommended.COVID-19 is currently spreading at an alarming rate throughout the United States. The safest thing to do right now is to stay home. Airport terminals, bus stations, train stations, rest stops, and hotel lobbies are all places travelers can be exposed to the virus. These are also places where it can be hard to keep your distance from others.
    • If you must travel, take as many precautions as possible to reduce your risk of catching or spreading the virus and always follow public health orders and guidance at your destination. Use CDC’s Travel Planner to find public health agencies.
  • Take care of your mental health, and check in on others. JCPH has helpful guidance for coping during the holidays here.
  • Remember that alcohol and/or drug use can reduce your vigilance and increase risky behavior.