Staying Safe this Holiday Season

A Note from the Newburyport Health Department

We understand that many residents may be feeling drained and weary from the cornavirus pandemic, but evidence shows that the dangers from the virus are still very much present in our community. Over the past few months, Newburyport's numbers have been slowly ticking up to levels that we have not seen in almost a year, which is cause for increased caution, especially as we head into two major holidays. 

The colder temperatures have forced us to host celebrations with family and friends indoors and with people who may or may not be vaccinated. We can still enjoy the season with our families and friends, but for everyone's safety we ask you to remain cautious by following these basic recommendations:

1. Everyone, both vaccinated and unvaccinated, should increase their awareness by meeting outside if you can, wearing a mask in public indoor settings, and keeping 6-feet of distance when around those of unknown vaccination status.
2. Get vaccininated, and if you are eligible, get boosted. Vaccination against COVID-19 is the most effective way to prevent serious illness and hospitalization. Vaccination is also not only for your own safety, but it also protects your friends, family, and everyone you meet along the way. To find a vaccination appointment nearest you, please visit vaxfinder.mass.gov. 

Nobody wants to lose friends or family to COVID and we all have the power, together, to stop the spread here in our community. Please be safe and have a wonderful holiday season!

Tips to Staying Healthy During the Holiday Season

1. Get vaccinated or a booster if eligible. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends COVID-19 vaccines for adults and children age 5 and older, and booster doses for most people. This is the most effective way to protect yourself against the virus and keep your community safe.
2. Follow local and state guidelines. COVID-19 guidelines and requirements vary across the country, and across businesses. The CDC recommends tracking local transmission rates to make a plan to stay safe and healthy. If you are traveling during the holidays, check state and local regulations becuase they may differ from your community. Before you make a dinner reservation, get tickets to see a play, or participate in another public activity, check the establishment's requirments in advance to know if you should wear a mask or bring proof of vaccination.
3. Take precuations while indoors. Whether you're shopping for gifts or groceries, stores are often busier during the holidays. In areas of substantial and high transmission, the CDC recommends that everyone, regardless of vaccination status, wears a mask in public indoor settings to help prevent the spread of the virus. Crowded and poorly ventilated indoor spaces can increase the risk fo being exposed to COVID-19 - so take extra precautions in these spaces, or try contactless or off-peak hours shopping.
4. Choose outdoor spaces when possible. Celebrating outdoors is safer than indoors. Whenever possible, move holiday gatherings or festivites outside. For example, you may be able to enjoy outdoor dining options or other seasonal outdoor activites, like ice skating or watching holiday light shows from the comfort of your car.
5. Stay at home if you are felling sick. Along with taking steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19, remember that it is cold and flu season. As busy as the holiday season can be, if you're not feeling well, you should not go shopping or attend gatherings. Help protect your loved ones, co-workers, and others by canceling your plans, wearing a mask, and staying home if you are sick.