The best gift for someone this holiday season is their health COVID-19 guidance for the holidays

December 14, 2020 – Defence Stories

You may have heard the saying “it’s the thought that counts” with regard to gift-giving. This year, in the COVID-19 pandemic environment, it’s our actions that will count the most. That’s because our behaviour will not only impact our health, but also the health of our family members, friends, colleagues, and our community. You can give people the best gift this holiday season—their health—by turning your thoughts into actions and respecting COVID-19 public health guidelines and preventive health measures. MGen Marc Bilodeau, the Surgeon General of the Canadian Armed Forces, offers his advice.

“The holidays are traditionally a time for Canadians, both at home and abroad, to gather with family and friends. But this year, we are being advised to keep holiday gatherings and celebrations within our immediate household to help reduce the spread of COVID-19,” says MGen Bilodeau. “Don’t be afraid to say no to in-person gatherings with family and friends if physical distancing is not possible, and explain to them that your actions are for everyone’s collective benefit. We must keep COVID-19 precautions in mind as we celebrate, to protect ourselves and others, even with the distractions that can accompany the holiday season. This will help prevent further spread of the virus in our communities.”

Some key tips to keep in mind this holiday season:

• don’t forget to wash your hands regularly;
• maintain physical distancing;
• wear non-medical masks;
• stay home if you feel sick;
• be aware of local gathering size limits and event cancellations;
• continue to assess local COVID-19 activity throughout the holidays, and be prepared to postpone, cancel or change your plans; and
• for those who must travel, you should avoid travel to areas with higher COVID-19 activity, and be aware of the requirements to self-isolate and quarantine based on public health guidelines for each location.

If you show symptoms consistent with COVID-19 you must isolate, get tested, and follow further advice from your health care provider. If you do not have symptoms but may have been exposed to COVID-19, isolate and contact your health care provider for further information.

We have the ability to shape our future and, now more than ever, we must not be complacent. Be kind to others and show them that you truly care about them by giving them the best gift of all this holiday season. By making short-term sacrifices, you can give others the gift of good health and do your part to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

Related link

• COVID-19: Plan a safe holiday or celebration
  (Government of Canada)