Guidelines to Help keep Everyone Safe During the Holiday Season

As we near the holiday, many of us question our families' safety during these joyous celebrations. COVID-19 is hitting an exponential spread throughout the country, with over 190,000 cases being recorded one-day last week. Many people have minimal symptoms, some are asymptomatic, and many are still requiring hospital or critical care. As the number of death cases continues to increase, we all know families affected by the virus. We have become Covid fatigued and desperately desire a return to our everyday lives.

              I am receiving questions all the time regarding the safety of gathering and travel. Now, more than ever, I pray each of us assesses and evaluates the risks to our families and have open, HONEST conversations with each regarding exposure risks. Each contact with people outside of your immediate families poses a threat. Soccer games, dance, band, etc., traveling, and even a dinner out carry potential.

              Zoom gatherings or virtual celebrations will be held by many people, including my family, which numbers 30! We decided this to keep my parents safe. However, If you choose to gather, following these recommendations may help prevent spread:

• Stay outdoors and socially distant, even when you are eating.
• Wear masks at all times, except when eating.
• Do Not serve from a crockpot, shared utensils, or from buffest style lines.
• Minimize alcohol intake, which reduces self-restraint and self-control if consumed in excess.
• Finally, limit gatherings to 10 people at most if possible.

Despite treatment improvements, people are still losing their lives daily. I hope everyone keeps those healthcare workers tirelessly working to treat all Covid patients and save lives, and the first responders who are transporting severely ill patients in their hearts this holiday season. These people are sacrificing their family time to serve us all, and we can all do our share to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Thankfully, vaccines are coming soon, but the reality is that it will take some time to immunize the masses.

Again, I wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving as we have so much to be thankful for. Just remember to consider everyone as a risk, and have honest conversations regarding what you are willing to risk, as I want all of us to celebrate many more holidays over the years to come.   

Author

Dr. Frank Mazza Dr. Mazza has been a Houston resident since 1979. He earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Texas at Austin, and he went on to earn his medical degree at the University of Texas Medical School in Houston. He completed his family practice residency at the Memorial Southwest Family Practice residency program. Dr. Mazza has often been recognized as a favorite local family physician in Texas Monthly magazine and other publications. Some of Dr. Mazza’s favorite hobbies include reading, sports, and music. He and his wife are proud parents of three daughters.