Yakima Health District officials are out with a holiday COVID-19 warning; Celebrate safely to reduce the spread of COVID-19!

Health officials want to keep hospitalizations down during the holidays

The officials say as of November 17 Yakima County reported a case rate of 326 cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 and a hospitalization rate of 5.0 per 100,000. The concern is that when more people get together for the upcoming holidays the case rate will increase.
As of November 17, Yakima County reported a case rate of 326per 100,000 and a hospitalization rate of 5.0 per 100,000. Health officials have some tips on how to make it a safe COVID-19 season;

The number one recommendation? Get a COVID-19 shot

1. Get vaccinated. The CDC recommends that all adults and children ages 5 and older get a COVID-19 vaccine and a booster dose if they are eligible. Visit YakimaVaccines.org for a list of mobile vaccine locations or call 2-1-1. Additionally, it is recommended everyone 6 months and older get the annual flu vaccine.

2. Wear a mask when in indoor public settings, or when in crowded areas.

3. Wash your hands frequently and disinfect surfaces.

4. Outdoor gatherings are safer than indoors. If gatherings indoors will occur, increase ventilation by opening doors and windows.

5. Communicate with guests about COVID-19 ground rules and precautions. Stay home if sick and stay away from others.

6. Safe Travels. If possible, delay travel if individuals are unvaccinated. If individuals are traveling with unvaccinated family members, such as
children who are not yet eligible to be vaccinated, take additional precautions.
It is crucial to avoid crowds, wear a mask, and get tested before and after the trip. Additionally, there are safer, alternative activities to consider to reduce the risk of COVID-19, such as having dinner with members of the same household, hosting a virtual gathering, watching sports events, parades, or movies at home, or online shopping, instead of in-person.

State officials are even going as far as suggesting you check the vaccination status of your guests.

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