As children look to trick-or-treat this Sunday, state health experts continue to advise families on how to enjoy Halloween safely.
Family Physician Erin Delaney held a virtual press briefing with local media members on Friday to discuss the upcoming holiday. Delaney is also an assistant professor of family medicine at The University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Delaney said this year will open more doors to citizens looking to celebrate this spooky season. She said Alabamians can expand their horizons and do more fun things that they could not do last year.
“The biggest difference from last year to this year, of course, are the vaccines for COVID-19,” Delaney said. “So, that really has changed what we’re able to do [and] the fun things that we can now do. That’s going to be the biggest difference, and as we’re watching our numbers come down in terms of cases, that also is really helping us.”
However, Delaney said safety protocols should not be forgotten despite this new freedom, even when outside. Among these are traveling in smaller groups, wearing a mask, handwashing and getting vaccinated for both the coronavirus and flu if eligible.
“Halloween is meant to be a fun holiday, and I really do think we will be able to celebrate and enjoy this holiday with our friends and family,” Delaney said. “So, we just have to remember there are just a few safety tips to keep in mind. If we do that, I feel like we’ll be able to safely celebrate.”
Delaney said she also wants to remind the public of general safety guidelines when outdoors. She still recommends families to walk on sidewalks, trick-or-treating when it is light out, wearing reflective clothing for cars to see and having a backup plan if you and your child get separated.
For those partying indoors this weekend, Delaney said the same rules apply to prevent coronavirus spread.
“So, certainly the safest way to gather indoors is for everyone to be vaccinated,” Delaney said. “We just really want to stress that that’s still the best way to keep you and your loved ones safe. If you are going to be indoors, certainly wear a mask. That’s the next most important thing.”
In addition, Delaney suggests gathering in places with greater ventilation and proper distancing. She said residents should remain wary about participating in larger groups whether indoors or outdoors.
Halloween is the start of several holidays that wrap up the remainder of the year. Delaney said residents should not forget what they practiced last fall.
“Halloween kind of kicks us off into the fun holiday season,” Delaney said. “So, some of the same rules apply for the rest of the holidays too. Again, don’t mean to sound like a broken record but get vaccinated for COVID. Get vaccinated for the flu.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revised their holiday tips on Oct. 15. The agency continues to endorse vaccinations, masking, avoiding crowded spaces and gatherings if sick or showing symptoms.
