By Kathy Chouteau
With the COVID-19 pandemic adding next-level scariness to Halloween this year, Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS) has advised county residents to avoid trick-or-treating, haunted houses and large holiday gatherings.
“COVID-19 can easily pass from person to person through close contact, and it’s difficult to maintain a safe distance on porches and doorsteps, especially in neighborhoods where trick or treating is popular,” stated CCHS, adding that “holiday parties involving close contact with people outside the household are also risky spots for catching COVID-19.”
Instead of the usual activities, CCHS suggests county residents consider showing their Halloween spirit by focusing their energies on costumes and seasonal decoration.
The County provided some alternate suggestions for safely celebrating Halloween, such as having a remote costume party on Zoom or Skype; decorating the yard or front of the house for drive-through vehicle parades and having COVID-safe visits from neighbors and families. Parents can also mix things up by staging at-home scavenger hunts or other safe ways to distribute treats solely to their own children.
County residents can also check with their community recreation departments to see if they’re organizing any safe Halloween activities, suggested CCHS.
For more info about COVID-19’s impact throughout Contra Costa County, as well as tips on how to reduce your risk, click here.
What are your plans for a COVID-safe Halloween celebration this year? Share your ideas in the comments!
