After months under stay-at-home orders, and summer right around the corner, families are eager to get out and connect with friends and loved ones.
However, COVID-19 is still being transmitted in our community – and as people begin to socialize with others who don’t live in the same household and visit places that have opened, we expect the number of cases to continue to rise.
With that in mind, here are some tips to celebrate Father’s Day safely with your family:
- Celebrate virtually — Use technology such as FaceTime, Zoom or Skype to enjoy conversation over a meal together, particularly if you are celebrating with family members over the age of 65 or who are immune compromised and have underlying conditions putting them at greater risk of complications from COVID-19.
- Dine alfresco – Picnic in the backyard and maintain social distancing. Set up blankets or tables for those who live in the same household 6 feet from others. Use disposable tableware and have one person who is wearing gloves dish up food onto plates — or consider purchasing boxed meals to reduce contact.
- Wash or sanitize hands frequently — If you are dining in the backyard, set up a handwashing station with a garden hose and soap dispenser; also have hand sanitizer readily available.
- Wear face coverings or masks — When not eating or drinking, keep your nose and mouth covered. Have a most creative or cutest mask contest.
- Take temperatures — Make sure that no one at your gathering has a fever or other symptoms of illness. If you are sick, please stay home and take care of yourself.
- Limit the size and length of time of your gathering —The more people you have spending time together in close proximity, even in the outdoors, increases the risk of exposure.
Proper hand washing, social distancing and wearing face coverings are the best ways to reduce spread of the virus until there is a vaccine for COVID-19. The best gift you can give this Father’s Day is protecting your loved ones from contracting COVID-19.
If you need medical care during this time, it is safe to visit your CHOC pediatrician or a CHOC emergency department. We know it can be scary and stressful to have a sick child, especially during a pandemic, so here are tips for deciding where to go for care during COVID-19.
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