COVID-19/Missouri Weekly Update: Public Health Reminders
Because COVID-19 is still spreading in Missouri communities, there is a need to find alternative ways to celebrate Halloween safely this year. Knowing that holidays like Halloween are important, especially during these challenging times, public health experts with the One for All Missouri campaign would like to share the following guidelines for celebrating Halloween this year.
- There are ways to celebrate safely – so you don’t put yourself or others at risk.
- DO trick-or-treat in your house or yard.
- DO organize a physically distanced costume parade in your neighborhood.
- DO leave individually wrapped treat bags of candy at the end of your driveway.
- DO incorporate a face mask in your costume.
- DO have a physically distanced outdoor gathering with a small group.
- DO follow best practices for stopping the spread of COVID-19.
- Pre-package candy in bags for trick-or-treaters.
- Wear a mask if you open your door to trick-or-treaters.
- Wash your hands before eating any candy.
- Traditional Halloween activities like trick-or-treating and going to parties can increase your chances of catching and spreading COVID-19.
- DO NOT substitute a costume mask for a mask intended to protect against COVID-19. Costume masks are not designed to prevent the spread of viral infections.
- DO NOT go out if you are feeling sick.
- DO NOT gather in large groups or gather indoors with people you do not live with.
- DO NOT provide candy in a shared bowl.
- Get your flu shot as soon as possible. Remember this simple phrase: “Flu before boo!”
- Some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar. By preventing the spread of the flu, we can decrease the number of people who need to be quarantined or isolated for these symptoms.
- Talkwith family members and neighbors about your Halloween plans. By organizing and working together, we can achieve a safe and fun Halloween.
For more information about how to #stopthespread and celebrate Halloween safely, visit our website at oneforallmo.com or connect with us on Facebook and Twitter. One for All Missouri campaign representatives are available to discuss in more detail.