Thanksgiving! A time of year we associate with family gatherings, turkey and all the trimmings, large dinners shared with loved ones, travel, and the start of the holiday/shopping season. 

It has been a taxing year for many. One filled with anxiety and uncertainty. But this pandemic has also served as a reminder of what is important in life. 

This year we are particularly thankful for family, friends, kindness, and health.

Unfortunately, as the weather becomes nippier and people are forced inside, positivity rates are on the rise. 

This year, as we celebrate Thanksgiving, it is important to keep each other safe, and to heed the public health measures we have been hearing for the past eight months. 

A few tips for a safe Thanksgiving this year:

1. Avoid mass gatherings, dinners, parties, and public events. Avoid any gathering over 10 people. 

• Because of the density of bodies, these could easily become superspreader events. The best thing we can do for ourselves, our loved ones, and our healthcare system is to stay home. 

• Opt for virtual gatherings if you can! A Zoom Thanksgiving, while not quite equivalent to physically eating with your loved ones, is likely the safest option this year. 

2. If you are planning a small private event with just members of your household, encourage people to get tested before, wear a mask and keep 6 feet away from others.

• Depending on your state regulations, there may be rules regarding how many people may gather.

• Speak to each individual to make sure he or she is not having any symptoms and that he or she is aware of the precautions that need to be taken. 

• Encourage everyone to get tested. Keep in mind that given the incubation period for this illness, a negative test does not guarantee that you are virus free or have not been exposed. 

  • Sometimes there can be a stigma associated with getting tested. Or there may be family dynamics or cultural barriers that make it a difficult topic to discuss. Emphasize that this is for everyone’s benefit and peace of mind--to protect everyone present.  

• Try to limit the number of individuals attending. Ideally, only members of the nuclear family or household should attend. 

  • The elderly, the pregnant, and those with preexisting conditions are likely higher risk.

• If you feel uncomfortable at a small gathering, health measures are not being respected, or individuals appear to be ill, it is okay to excuse yourself this year.
  
  
  
  

3. If you live in a warmer area, consider celebrating Thanksgiving outdoors. There is superior ventilation than in closed spaces.

• Avoid sharing food, drinks, and utensils, and “take what you touch”. Avoid buffet style Thanksgiving feasts, and opt for bringing your own food/utensils, or explore boxed individual type meals. 

• Only take masks off for eating. 

• Use hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.

• Wipe down common areas and shared surfaces as often as possible. 

• Opt for outdoor activities if you live in a warm area.

4. Avoid flying if possible.

• We are in the busiest travel week of the year. Each person’s circumstance is different, but evaluate whether it is necessary to expose yourself to crowded airports during this time. Consider a virtual Thanksgiving!

5. Driving Safety. Many people are hitting the roads this week.

• Always remain a vigilant driver, and never drive under the influence of alcohol. 

6. Make sure to check with your local and state authorities regarding specific public health measures for your area, as well as travel advisories. 

We mourn the hundreds of thousands of Americans/loved ones we have lost this year to the pandemic. There was unthinkable and irreplaceable loss. 

But we are thankful for family, friends, health, innovation, and the essential workers who keep our society running. 

Sometimes it is the little things that are the big things. 

And we remain hopeful for effective vaccines and a bright post-pandemic future. 

Have a safe, healthy, and enjoyable Thanksgiving!

Medical Disclaimer: This article and website do not provide medical advice. It is intended for informational purposes only. It does not substitute for professional medical advice.  If you believe you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your physician or 911.