Holiday traditions are important. In addition to making the holiday season memorable, they help us stay connected to our community and provide a sense of stability. Regardless of whatever else is going on in our lives, the holidays always give us something to look forward to.

But as we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be wondering whether you can safely gather with your loved ones this year. The answer is a definitive yes, as long as you take some precautions.

Read on for 6 tips to enjoy holiday traditions while keeping everyone safe and healthy this holiday season!
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Get vaccinated

Above all else, the best way to minimize the risk of your family holiday party becoming a superspreader is to get vaccinated for COVID-19 (and the flu). The holidays tend to involve gatherings of multiple generations, including young children who may not be able to be vaccinated yet and elderly or higher-risk family members, so it’s important for everyone who’s eligible to do their part to protect those around them.
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Mask up and sanitize regularly

It’s a good idea to stock up on essentials like masks and hand sanitizer to make sure you don’t run out while you’re traveling. Even if you normally wear a reusable mask, it doesn’t hurt to have some extra disposable masks on hand in case you’re in a pinch. Hand sanitizer can also help keep your hands clean and reduce the odds of spreading or picking up germs while traveling.

The CDC recommends wearing a well-fitting reusable or disposable mask with multiple layers of fabric in public indoor settings if you’re in an area with substantial to high transmission of COVID-19 (even if you are fully vaccinated).
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Avoid crowded, poorly ventilated spaces

If at all possible, it’s a good idea to hold your holiday gathering outdoors to reduce transmission of COVID-19 and other illnesses — especially if your event involves unvaccinated friends or family members. However, depending on the climate where you live, outdoor holiday events may not be an option. Mitigate the risk by gathering in a well-ventilated space that allows for people to maintain safe distance if necessary.
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Consider testing before gathering

If you’re planning to get together with friends and family from multiple households, consider implementing additional precautions like getting tested for COVID-19 prior to the holidays — especially if your gathering involves people traveling from multiple parts of the country.
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Listen to the experts

If you’re planning to travel this holiday season, be sure to stay up-to-date on all the latest CDC travel guidelines and talk to your primary care provider about your plans — especially if you’re at higher risk of serious outcomes due to COVID-19. If your care team has any concerns, listen carefully, ask questions, and take their advice into consideration.
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Stay home if you're sick

Above all else, if you have any symptoms in the days leading up to the holidays, don’t host or attend a gathering. While it might be disappointing to cancel plans at the last minute, it’s certainly better than the alternative of spreading illness among loved ones.‍‍

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Firefly is here to help

If you have questions about how to stay healthy and safe during the holiday season, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Firefly Health care team. You can chat with us or schedule a visit in the app today. Not a member yet? Get started by signing up or giving us a call at (855) 869-9284.
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** If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or have a close contact with someone who has COVID-19, be sure to quarantine and get tested. **