The holidays are upon us, and it’s of course a time for gathering with friends and family. But we can’t ignore the continued presence of COVID-19 and what that means for gatherings this year.

It is important to encourage those who are eligible to get vaccinated before gathering in large groups. People can continue to wear masks indoors and in crowded public places to lower the spread of COVID-19. They can also protect their loved ones this way.

Beyond safety regarding COVID-19, there are other safety issues to be aware of during the holidays, including food preparation. Educate people on how to observe food safety protocols when cooking a turkey, serving Thanksgiving meals and utilizing leftovers.

The resources below will help you facilitate conversations on making healthy, safe decisions during the holidays.

Safer Ways to Celebrate Holidays

CDC

This article outlines the best way people can prevent the spread of COVID-19 while still celebrating the holidays the way they’d like. Find comprehensive tips on staying healthy and safe during the holidays, from recommendations on when to use masks, to encouraging those who are eligible to get vaccinated, and providing information on how to best travel during this time.

Thanksgiving/Holiday Food Safety: Turkey: From Farm to Table Safely

USDA

It’s an American tradition to feast on turkey during Thanksgiving. This article addresses how to choose a turkey for dinner based on the labels and how to safely handle, cook and serve turkey to avoid any foodborne diseases. It even provides exact cook times based on weight.