(Stock image, design by Solano News Update)
The Solano County Public Health Division issued new guidance this past week for those who intend to celebrate the Halloween holiday this year.
As of Sunday morning, Solano County had not followed the lead of other communities in banning trick-or-treating altogether, but county health officials are warning parents that close interaction with others during Halloween celebrations could lead to an increased risk of COVID-19 infection.
Health officials say it’s better this year to trick-or-treat with close family members and others who live in the same household instead of venturing out into the neighborhood. Officials also say costumes should account for the wearing of a face mask and a need to sanitize and wash hands frequently — face masks that come with costumes aren’t a substitution for N95-rated and cloth masks that are typically worn in public.
County health officials say families should consider these low risk alternatives to trick-or-treating this year:
Decorate or carve a pumpkin with members who live in the same household.
Having a virtual Halloween costume contest over Zoom or Facebook.
Visiting a drive-in movie theater.
Decorating the house, apartment or other living space.
In addition to trick-or-treating, county health officials say children and adults should avoid these events to help reduce the risk and spread of COVID-19 infection:
Attending costume parties that are held indoors or are otherwise crowded.
Going on hayrides and tractor rides.
Traveling to a fall festival.
Going to an indoor haunted house.
The Centers for Disease Control says adults who experience flu-like symptoms or otherwise feel sick should not hand out candy this year. [Click to read more]
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