By Pamela Cruz. Peninsula 360 Press [P360P].
In an effort to prevent transmission of COVID-19 and serious cases of the disease, San Mateo County has issued health advisories just days before the start of the holiday season and the Thanksgiving holiday.
And that's because gatherings and holidays can pose a risk for spreading the virus. So by following some basic safety steps, schools and families can ensure that holiday activities and events are not only fun, but also safe for all members of the community, including young children who are not vaccinated.
Get fully vaccinated
The county has called on those who are not yet fully vaccinated to get the doses needed to protect themselves against the virus that has claimed millions of lives around the world: doses are available to everyone, starting at age 5.
He stressed that vaccines are the best protection against infection: "The three currently available vaccines are safe and effectively reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19.
Vaccination options are available on the following website San Mateo County Healthreminding that vaccines are now also available for children ages 5 to 11.
Stay home if you don't feel well
Likewise, the county urges you not to attend celebrations or participate in group activities if you feel sick or experience symptoms. Runny nose, headache and vomiting are all symptoms of COVID-19.
Stay home if you have been exposed to COVID-19 and are not vaccinated.
In turn, he asked that if you have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19 and you or someone in your family living in the same household does not have the full scheme, you better stay at home.
Wear mouthguards
Even if you are vaccinated, you can still get COVID-19 and carry and spread the virus without showing symptoms. Masks are an effective way to prevent infection. So, he said:
? Everyone, regardless of vaccination status, should wear a facemask in enclosed public settings.
? It is recommended that masks be worn in private settings where some attendees are not vaccinated or when there are people who are medically vulnerable or whose immune systems are compromised.
Keep meetings small
Large gatherings, even if outdoors, present a risk of COVID-19 transmission.
Gather outdoors
Indoor activities where people from different households mix present an increased risk of COVID-19 transmission, especially for people who have not yet been vaccinated.
Be careful when eating
Eat outdoors if possible, keep your distance while eating and drinking, and practice good hand hygiene.
If you plan to travel during this season, follow this guide:
? Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) have minimal requirements regarding travel, everyone should follow the same steps: get vaccinated, avoid traveling when sick, wear a mask when using public transportation or with others outside the home, and avoid large gatherings.
? Schools should not exclude students who have traveled; however, the county said, they may want to increase the pace of staff and student testing during and after peak vacation times.
What to do after an event, meeting or trip
? To further protect yourself and your loved ones, watch for symptoms for 14 days after participating in celebrations, activities, or travel.
? Pay special attention on days 3 to 7 after the activities, as this is when people are most likely to develop symptoms.
? If you learn that you have been in close contact with someone who tests positive, get tested as well and, if you are not fully vaccinated, stay home until quarantine.
? If you do not feel well or test positive, stay home regardless of your vaccination status.
? Children and youth attending a TK-12 school who are not immunized do not qualify for modified quarantine if any of the following situations occur:
? The event took place outside the school environment
? All attendees at an event were not wearing face masks.
You may be interested in: Fully Effective Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine for 12-15 Year Olds: Experts
