A New Take on Celebrating Thanksgiving

Just because it’s Thanksgiving doesn’t mean it’s safe to set aside COVID-19 protocols for the sake of traditional holiday festivities. In fact, Bayhealth Primary Care, Milford’s Preeti Gupta, MD, urges caution and planning with safety in mind. In addition to continuing the practices of hand-washing, mask wearing, and social distancing, she offers some additional advice for tackling the traditional Thanksgiving dinner.

• Consider a virtual meal. Use programs like Zoom or Skype to connect with family members. 
• When planning your meal, consider using pick-up options for your grocery items to avoid additional time in crowded grocery stores.
• If you do visit family, masks are a must! Dr. Gupta also urges her patients to get tested before any family visits. “Coronavirus doesn’t differentiate,” said Dr. Gupta. “Use protection, keep distance, and get checked.”
• Flu shots are more important than ever. “I recommend that everyone get a flu shot,” Dr. Gupta said. Pneumonia vaccinations are important for seniors and younger people with comorbidities.
• Be careful. “Some patients are at higher risk, those with comorbidities – like diabetes – and those who are immuno-compromised,” she explained. People with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Crohn’s disease, as well as people receiving chemotherapy and cancer treatments are particularly vulnerable and should be extra careful this holiday season.
• Pick your own comfort level. Dr. Gupta reports that some patients have told her they have considered their options and are making plans that work for their individual situations. “Some patients say they are not going anywhere,” she said. Others have decided to invite family or guests who have negative COVID-19 tests. “We have to be really careful now. I tell people to enjoy the holidays and don’t get sick. It’s OK to stay home.”

If you’re experiencing COVID-19 related symptoms or have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for the virus, contact your primary care provider. Visit Bayhealth.org/COVID-19 to learn more.