December 22, 2021
Media Contact: Brookie Crawford, brookie.crawford@vdh.virginia.gov
Celebrate the Holidays Safely with these Tips from Crater Health District
PETERSBURG, Va. – This holiday give your friends and family the give of health. The Virginia Department of Health’s Crater Health District offers the following holiday tips to celebrate with your loved ones this holiday season:
- Get vaccinated, and get your booster if you’re eligible.
- Wear a mask in public indoor spaces.
- Gather outside, or in well ventilated areas.
- Stay at home and get tested if you’re having any symptoms of COVID-19.
- Wash your hands frequently, including before and after preparing food.
“Please get your COVID-19 vaccination/booster and your flu shot before heading to holiday gatherings,” said Crater Health District Director Alton Hart, Jr., MD, MPH, MDiv. “With the new Omicron variant and people gathering indoors for the holidays, it’s important to take extra precautions this holiday season to keep your friends and loved ones safe.”
Assess your level of risk by considering the following before attending holiday gatherings:
- Level of COVID-19 spread in the community
- The number of people at the gathering.
- Location
- Duration
- Behavior of people attending the gathering
If you are traveling for the holidays, be sure to review international and domestic travel guidance for more information on requirements and precautions when traveling.
Wondering about getting tested? If you are gathering with a group of people from multiple households, consider taking a test before the gathering to further reduce your risk of spreading COVID-19 at the event. If you are traveling, getting tested before or after travel is recommended for certain people. Find the latest testing recommendations here.
Crater Health District will be offering a COVID-19 testing event on Wednesday, December 29 from 3 to 5 p.m. at Unity Baptist Church located at 4951 Mt. Sinai Rd, Prince George. Schedule an appointment by calling (804) 862-8989. Walk-ins are welcome as time and supply allow.
To get a COVID-19 vaccine or booster, visit vaccinate.virginia.gov or call 877-VAX-IN-VA (877-829-4682, TTY users call 7-1-1). Assistance is available in English, Spanish, and more than 100 other languages.
Remember the three Ws – wear a mask, watch your distance and wash your hand – and have a safe and happy holiday!
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