Yakima Health District News Release: Yakima Health District Encourages Safe Thanksgiving Celebrations

With Thanksgiving and other holidays fast approaching, the Yakima Health District
encourages community members to celebrate safely to reduce the spread of COVID-19. As of
November 17, Yakima County reported a case rate of 326 per 100,000 and a hospitalization rate of 5.0
per 100,000. Additional precautions during the holidays will help reduce the risk of COVID-19.
Tips for a safer holiday season:

  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.