December 18, 2020
Media Contact:
Scott Peterson, Director of Communications, Office of Public Information, 202-277-9412
ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Today, County Executive Calvin Ball and the Howard County Health Department released guidance for residents to “StayCOVIDSafe” this holiday season.
What to avoid:
- Indoor gatherings, meals, and parties
- Crowded stores
- Traveling to attend holiday gatherings
What to do instead:
- Always wear your mask, keep your distance, and wash your hands
- Shop online and locally whenever possible or at off-peak times when stores are less crowded
- Have a small dinner with only members of your household
- Meet with family or friends outdoors instead of sharing a holiday meal, wearing masks and physically distanced
- Wrap and mail gifts to family and friends, and open together over the phone or online
- If you haven’t already, get your flu shot
“We all know this holiday season is going to look and feel a lot different, but there is hope on the horizon and our actions over the next few weeks can make a difference,” said Ball. “With increasing cases and widespread community transmission, it is much wiser to shift plans now and know we will all be reunited soon. To stay COVID safe this winter, please heed the advice of our public health officials and alter your holiday plans accordingly – we can still connect more safely outdoors, masked and distanced or online to share moments with our loved ones.”
“This year we will be celebrating the holidays differently. Staying home with household members and creating new traditions is the best way to stay safe,” said Dr. Maura J. Rossman, Howard County Health Officer.