BOSTON — After the year that has been 2020, so many of us are looking forward to the holidays. But on Tuesday, Governor Charlie Baker, along with state health officials, warned we should not treat these holidays like any other year.
“There’s just no way around it. The holidays have to look and feel different this year if we’re going to keep up the fight against COVID,” Baker said.
Baker says it’s hard to say and even harder to do.
But he’s asking Massachusetts residents to consider not just public health but their own and their family’s when making 2020 holiday plans.
“The science on this one is pretty clear,” Baker said. “Gathering in groups indoors, for an extended period of time, with family and friends is likely the worst possible scenario for spreading the virus.”
Baker suggests celebrating virtually with family members you don’t live with.
Baker says his family Thanksgiving will too be very different.
“It will be immediate family and that’s it, It’s not going to be my dad, not going to be any of our neighbors," said Baker. "It’s going to be a much different event.”
The warning comes as coronavirus cases continue to climb across the state. Tuesday was the fourth straight day with new COVID-19 cases surpassing 1,000.
Also on Tuesday, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health issued guidance for how to safely celebrate Thanksgiving, from prepping to serving the meal.
“One or two people in the kitchen with face coverings on serving, creating plates for people and serving people at the table,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Marylou Sudders. “So, you are not talking plate and bowls and sharing them around."
If extra people are coming into your home this holiday, DPH says:
• Wear your mask and watch your distance at all times
• Do not share food, drink, or any utensils
• Encourage guests to bring food and drinks for themselves and their household only.
• Wear a mask while preparing or serving food to others who don’t live in your household.
Also, state health officials say ventilate your home and spend some time outdoors if possible. And, be mindful of those in your family who might be at higher risk of contracting the virus.
Download the free Boston 25 News app for up-to-the-minute push alerts
>> Complete local and national coronavirus coverage here
RESOURCES:
- Complete local and national coronavirus coverage here
- Follow us on Facebook and Twitter | Watch Boston 25 NOW
/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/cmg/7QOJU3BNCJERBNKJC5LWTBYFLU.png)
