Staying safe this Christmas in the current pandemic

This article has been written and medically approved by Pharmacist Conor McSorley GPhC Reg No. 2223070

Have an online gathering 

Although it may be hard this year to not get that kiss under the mistletoe at the office party or give grandma a Christmas hug, the number one way to stay safe this Christmas and to avoid putting any family members at risk is by sticking to online Zoom calls and other digital platforms.

Be sensible in the lead up to Christmas 

Limiting the number of people you have contact with before mixing at Christmas will reduce the likelihood of passing COVID onto a member of your family, but it is not full-proof. Coming into contact with only one person in the lead up to Christmas won’t be enough if that one person has Coronavirus.

Don’t share

Although Christmas is obviously the time to share gifts, happiness and love, this Christmas it is best to avoid sharing cutlery and eating from the same pot as people not living in your household. Similarly choose quizzes over board games this year but if shared objects are involved make sure to maintain good hand hygiene and avoid touching your face during these activities.

Travel Safely

Experts have provided advice on how to travel safely if you are driving relatives home after Christmas. Wear face coverings, open windows, keep journeys as short as possible and avoid unnecessary travel with people outside of your own household.