Thread by @AliHMokdad

Wishing a very warm happy holidays to all – we deserve to celebrate even amid immense hardship. I have been asked frequently about safe travel and gatherings for the holidays amid #COVID19 lately. Here are my thoughts. 1/

🔑 Being vaccinated against #COVID19 and getting a booster as soon as its available to you is absolutely key to gather safely this holiday season.

Also get a flu vaccine to further protect yourself and your family. 2/

🚘✈️ Before traveling, get tested at a free site or get a home test. If your test comes back positive for #COVID19, follow current @CDCgov guidelines and stay at home. 3/

While traveling, follow current @CDCgov #COVID19 guidance and take steps to protect yourself like:

-Wearing a mask indoors.
-Frequently washing your hands.
-Keeping a safe distance from others. 4/

While at your travel destination:

-Wear a mask in public indoor settings, regardless of your vaccination status.
-Avoid crowded, poorly ventilated spaces.
-Gather outdoors whenever possible. 5/

If you are gathering inside unmasked with different groups of people, get tested before gathering and again 5–7 days after the gathering event. #COVID19 #TravelAdvice #Thanksgiving 6/

Returning home after travel:

-Get tested for #COVID19 after your return.
-If positive follow all current @CDCgov guidelines and stay home. 7/

Always stay home if you feel sick or have #COVID19 symptoms.

Always get tested if you have #COVID19 symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who has #COVID19. 8/

Do your part to contain this virus and do not bring #COVID19 to your loved ones while traveling. Always remember that the best gift during these holidays is the gift of life. Do your best to encourage others to get a vaccine and wear a mask while inside public spaces. end/