Four Tips to Safely Celebrate the Holidays During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The holidays are fast approaching, but the evolving coronavirus pandemic, coupled with ever-changing travel restrictions, could impact your travel plans this year. Several states are implementing mandatory documentation and health screenings at airports. If you’re planning to travel over the holidays, consider taking the following precautions to protect yourself and others from COVID-19:

Check travel restrictions

Before hitting the road, check the travel restrictions for your destination or airline to ensure you are in compliance. Knowing what to expect can help save you potential headaches or delays.

Get tested early

Many states offer COVID-19 testing in lieu of mandatory quarantine. If you need a COVID-19 test to travel or meet compliance for an airline, we can help. All of our COVID-19 tests are CLIA-waived, low-risk and reliable, and include appropriate documentation, so you can rest assured knowing you’re covered for your trip.

Our COVID-19 testing options include:

• Antibody testing – Antibody levels help indicate immune response, giving a person an indication if he or she has been infected with SARS CoV-2 in the past.
• Antigen (rapid) testing – Our rapid test is administered as a nasal swab. While positive tests are highly accurate, negative results do not always rule out infection because antigen tests are not as sensitive as molecular tests.
• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test – A PCR test shows if a person has an active coronavirus infection and should take steps to quarantine or isolate from others. Like the antigen test, our PCR test is administered as a nasal swab, but the results are not as rapid.

Seek regularly, quality care

Research shows that access to primary care is associated with positive health outcomes. If you’re not already enrolled, consider registering for direct primary care (DPC) to ensure you and your family have access to regular quality care, when and where you need it. In addition to receiving unlimited in-person visits, Strada Healthcare members can consult with their primary care providers any time through calls, texts or virtual consultations – no matter when or where a health concern or question arises.

Avoid close contact with others outside the home

In-person gatherings pose varying levels of risk. Check in with friends and family before traveling to make sure they have not recently been around anyone with a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis. When attending in-person gatherings, the CDC recommends maintaining at least six feet (about two arms’ length) between anyone who is not from your household.

Practice preventive health

Covering coughs and sneezes as well as keeping hands clean can help prevent the spread of disease. The CDC suggests washing your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol) to reduce the spread of germs. When in public settings, like on mass transportation or at social gatherings, remember to wear a mask and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

It’s no secret that COVID-19 has impacted our way of life. While travel may look a lot different this year, there are still ways to enjoy the holidays safely. By remaining diligent and taking the appropriate precautions, you can safely enjoy your time with friends and family. For more information or to schedule a test, please contact us.