(Atlantic) COVID-19 is putting a fork into some family gatherings during this upcoming holiday season, particularly Thanksgiving, which is less than one month away.
Cass County Public Health Director Beth Olsen says gathering in large groups for Thanksgiving depends on the family dynamics.“I think holiday gatherings can be done safely with small immediate families from the same community and knowledge that everyone is healthy and hasn’t been exposed, “said Olsen.
Olsen admits problems arise with family and friends traveling from outside the community. “A higher risk of spreading the virus comes from people traveling in from other communities and staying overnight with grandma or grandpa for an extended weekend,” said Olsen. “Because we want people to be there in the future when it is safe to meet again. I think it wise to have those conversations now on what will the holidays look like for families.”
Olsen suggests a couple of other options, such as having a virtual dinner and sharing traditional family recipes with family and friends virtually, especially those at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.
