Thanksgiving is a time when many families celebrate together. Madison County Health Care System is encouraging our community to use standard COVID-19 health precautions and celebrate virtually with extended family this year.
Lower-risk activities
- A small dinner with the people who live with you.
- A virtual dinner and sharing recipes with friends and family.
- Shopping online or purchasing gift cards from local businesses, rather than shopping in person the Friday after Thanksgiving. You could even book now for a trip you’ll take together later.
- Preparing traditional family recipes for family and neighbors, especially those at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 and delivering them in a way that doesn’t involve contact with others.
Medium-risk activities
- A small dinner with a few extended family members who live in your community. Lower your risk by following CDC recommendations for hosting gatherings.
- Small outdoor sporting events, if you follow safety precautions.
Avoid higher-risk activities
- Traveling out of town.
- Shopping in crowded stores, especially just before, on, or after Thanksgiving.
- Attending or participating in crowded races or parades.
- Attending medium or large indoor gatherings with people who do not live with you.
Be diligent about practicing mitigation strategies which include masks, social distancing and proper hand hygiene. Remember, we all have a responsibility – to our families, friends and our community – to take steps to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
For more information on COVID-19 in Iowa, visit coronovirus.iowa.gov.