The Message Behind Thanksgiving
During the fourth Thursday of November, families all across North America gather in unity, in a celebration of common purpose for a time of healing entrusted from the hardships of life. Thanksgiving is an opportunity to understand different perspectives about our lives and the world we live in; for most forget to allow their humility and kindness to overshadow their greed and lust.
Many are thankful for the food on their plate, even when food is scarce. Or, the small steps towards peace in a time of war. Especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, civilians need to be reminded of the difficulties they have undergone this difficult year for the sake of their mental and physical health and be proud of how far they’ve come in a most disastrous time.
Covid-19 And The Holiday’s
As Thanksgiving approaches, doctors from across the state are continuing to urge people to social distance and use caution to prevent the spread of Covid-19 during Thanksgiving week. As of November 19, a staggering 13,768 new cases of confirmed Covid-19 cases have been reported in Texas.
Dr. Sharon Nachman, division chief for Pediatric Infectious Diseases at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, advises an outdoor setting to host Thanksgiving as a precaution. She also suggests altering your serving style, such as having your guests bring over their own plates and utensils to halt the spread of germs possibly tracing back to other individuals.
According to the rules and regulations imposed by the CDC, the safest way to celebrate Thanksgiving is to celebrate with the people you live with. A possible alternative to this may include virtual gatherings with one’s friends or loved ones. In accordance with this objective, the CDC announced, “If you are an older adult or person with certain medical conditions who are at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19, or live or work with someone at increased risk of severe illness, you should avoid in-person gatherings with people who do not live in your household.” In line with CDC regulations, M. Kit Delgado, an assistant professor of emergency medicine and epidemiology at the University of Pennsylvania, told MarketWatch in September that “sitting out on this year’s big family gatherings can help keep everyone safe […] especially vulnerable family members […] and avoid overburdening hospitals during flu season.”
Regarding student’s Thanksgiving plans, Senior Helen Forgey stated, “I am staying home with my parents. My grandparents on my mom’s side are supposed to come over.” In response to whether or not her family will be enacting any safety measures to reduce the spread of Covid-19, her response was a simple “no.” Another Senior, Tra Tran, said “I’ll stay home, hang out with my family and friends. I may go to the mall but I’m concerned about the virus.”
Steps To Follow For Hosting Or Attending A Gathering
- Limit the number of guests to allow people from different households to stay six-feet apart at all times. Guests should avoid direct contact, including hugging, kissing, and handshakes with members not from their household.
- Host outdoor gatherings to avoid poorly ventilated spaces. Require guests to wear gloves or masks when not eating or drinking. If it is impossible to hold outdoor gatherings, open windows, and doors to increase ventilation indoors.
- Check the Covid-19 infection rates in your area or the area where the host lives.
- Make it mandatory for guests to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or hand sanitizer.