Halloween Safety

Despite widespread vaccination, the Delta variant poses a new threat, especially to younger populations. This Halloween, embrace outdoor activities like pumpkin patches and corn mazes, which were previously off-limits. Prioritize safety during trick-or-treating: wear masks, sanitize hands, and maintain distance. For indoor gatherings, ensure all attendees are vaccinated, and take precautions like masking, distancing, and ventilation. Protect older or high-risk family members by opting for small, outdoor celebrations or increasing indoor safety measures. The key is to assess risks and apply appropriate protections based on vaccination status, age, and health. Get vaccinated or a booster if eligible, and encourage loved ones to do the same. Low-risk activities for youth include online costume contests, Halloween movies at home, pumpkin carving, and touring decorated neighborhoods. Remember, commercial Halloween masks offer no COVID-19 protection; wear a COVID-safe mask. Reduce COVID spread by washing costumes, cleaning candy containers, and keeping candy wrapped. Avoid direct contact with trick-or-treaters by setting up outdoor treat stations and washing hands before handling candy.