LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – To keep Halloween a safe and fun holiday, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is offering tips and tricks to keep loved ones safe and to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
“Because many of our young Michiganders are not yet eligible to be vaccinated, we urge everyone to take precautions to participate safely,” chief medical executive Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian said in a statement. “There are still ways to celebrate safely, and the MDHHS guidance provides tips for trick-or-treaters and their parents along with homeowners who wish to pass out treats.”
Tips for all persons include getting the COVID-19 vaccine if you are eligible (ages 12 and over), staying home if you are sick, wearing a mask that covers both the mouth and nose, washing hands often and/or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60 percent alcohol, and coughing or sneezing into your elbow.
MDHHS also strongly advises adults and children ages 6 months and over to get their annual flu vaccine.
Flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be administered in the same visit.
Tips for trick-or-treaters and parents:
- Talk with children about Halloween safety and expectations.
- Stay outdoors for activities, particularly if participants are not vaccinated.
- Trick or treat in small groups.
- Avoid congregating in groups around houses.
- If indoors or in crowded outdoor settings, wear a face mask covering both mouth and nose (a costume mask is not a substitute for a cloth mask).
- Do not wear a costume mask over a protective cloth mask if wearing both causes difficulty breathing. Instead, consider using a Halloween-themed cloth mask.
Tips for homeowners to consider:
- Distribute candy on a table to eliminate direct contact.
- Consider handing out candy in an open space where distancing is possible, rather than from the front door.
- Consider a neighborhood costume parade; it is an easy way to keep safe space between children.
To maximize protection from COVID-19 and flu, it is recommended that age-eligible children and adults get vaccinated as soon as possible.
To find a vaccine location near you, visit VaccineFinder.org.
