Your Gathering, Your Guidelines: Setting Holiday Rules Amid the Pandemic

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The holiday season is upon us, and the pandemic is still a reality. While early reports on the omicron variant offer some hope—Dr. Mike Jensen suggests it is likely less severe than delta—we still need to approach our celebrations with caution. It’s crucial to stay vigilant and implement some holiday guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety.

With vaccines available for everyone aged five and up, many people will be fully vaccinated (and even boosted) by the time the holidays roll around. If your friends and family are all vaccinated, the risk of gathering is relatively low. However, hosting outdoor get-togethers can still be a wise choice!

What about mixing vaccinated and unvaccinated guests? In that case, it’s best to keep masks on and maintain some social distance. It may feel inconvenient, but it’s all about keeping everyone healthy. If kids are invited, don’t hesitate to ask about their vaccination status—after all, it’s your party! If certain guests aren’t vaccinated, consider asking everyone to wear masks. If that doesn’t sit well with you, it’s perfectly okay to skip the gathering. No hard feelings, right?

Remember, there’s no need to apologize for wanting to implement COVID safety rules. As Dr. Emily Chang, a family psychologist, stated, “This is not just about wanting to spend time together; it’s about prioritizing safety.” So, if you’re hosting, you have the power to set the rules. If someone decides not to attend because of them, that’s their choice.

Here are some tips to consider for your holiday gathering:

1. Keep It Intimate: Smaller gatherings are still the way to go. The bigger the crowd, the higher the risk. If you do opt for a large gathering, make sure everyone wears masks.
2. Check Vaccination Status: Ask your guests if they’re vaccinated. Sure, it might feel awkward, but it’s important. Just approach it casually and without judgment. “Share your story and explain why it’s important to you,” suggests psychologist Ava Taylor. “This isn’t about lecturing others.”
3. Gather Outdoors When Possible: Being outside is still the safest option, especially if you have a mix of vaccinated and unvaccinated guests. And yes, there are ways to make outdoor gatherings comfy even in the cold.
4. Stay Clean: Regular handwashing is key! Keep hand sanitizer handy for your guests. We’re in the thick of cold and flu season, and nobody wants to be sick over the holidays.

Enjoy your celebrations, but remember to take these precautions. Don’t let your guard down just because things seem to be improving. Encourage your friends and family to get vaccinated, too, so we can all step into the New Year feeling happy and healthy! For more information on home insemination, check out Make a Mom and learn about their re-usable options. Also, for those interested in sperm donor matching, consider joining the Make a Mom Facebook group.

In summary, the holiday season can still be festive, but it’s essential to prioritize safety by setting guidelines that work for you and your loved ones.