This New York Times article has some good tips: Another Covid wave could be coming. Here’s How to Make Your Holiday Plans.
Here’s the #TLDR gist of it (especially as the article is behind a firewall):
You can mitigate risk without missing out. We have the tools; we just have to use them.
Plan around the highest-risk member of your family
Precautions are more warranted if the gathering includes any of the following:
- Someone over 60
- Someone on immunosuppressant medication
- Someone who’s had a transplant
- Someone undergoing cancer treatment
Discuss with all participants the game plan for protecting this person or people.
Get the new booster
(I’ve regionalized this point:) In Ontario, anyone five years of age or older can get the bivalent booster three to six months after their last vaccination or their last Covid infection, whichever was more recent.
Pay attention to your symptoms
In the days leading up to the event, and especially the morning of, watch for symptoms such as sore throat, congestion, coughing, fatigue, headaches, muscle pain, and (more rarely now) loss of taste or smell.
If you feel sick, stay away, even if a rapid test is negative.
Test wisely
Asymptomatic infections still occur. Best practice is to take a rapid test the day before, then another one immediately before the gathering.
Consider a “mini quarantine”
If feasible, try to minimize your exposure the week before the gathering by wearing a mask in public indoor spaces, limiting time spent around crowds, and avoiding restaurants and bars.
Mask up while you travel
Whether by plane, train, or bus, wear a high-quality mask (a respirator), and take it off as little as possible. Consider having a big meal right before starting your travels to make that easier.
Ventilate your space
If holding the event outdoors isn’t feasible, try opening windows slightly, or running a HEPA filter.
(Other tips on this one from me: See Ventilation 101.)
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