by Laryssa Leone, reporter
OMAHA – Halloween is the time of year where many of us enjoy being scared but with the fear of contracting COVID-19, some holiday traditions may look different this year.
The Douglas County Health Department’s COVID-19 Halloween guidelines say that door to door trick or treating is considered high risk exposure to the virus.
APRN Susan Peschel said, “Studies show children are still contracting COVID-19. They can be carriers, they can spread it with other relatives especially maybe there more vulnerable older relatives who are at higher risk of developing complications or more serious infection of the COVID-19. So, you know, I would still say, try to do the best you can with the preventative measures that the CDC recommends.”
The CDC recommends masking with a PPE mask, along with your costumes, practicing good hand hygiene, social distancing, limiting group size and keeping at least six feet of distance.
For a child like Maeve Connelly practicing these safety precautions is very important to her at school and at home. Maeve explains that her dad has a preexisting condition that makes him susceptible to catching COVID-19, and although she is excited to celebrate this year she knows that safety is her priority. When asked how she plans on spending Halloween Connelly said, “My school is going to a farm to go trunk or treating, it’s like a costume party.”
Maeve mentioned that at this event there will be a lot of hand sanitizer, social distance and mask wearing. Washing hands after every activity they partake in. Maeve explained that this is one of the only school events that haven’t been cancelled due to the pandemic.
If you’re looking for safe ways to celebrate Halloween with your family visit the Douglas County Health Department’s COVID-19 Halloween guidelines. The COVID-19 guideline recommends low risk exposure activities such as, at home scavenger hunts. You can also check out the CDC’s COVID-19 reference page or call 402-552-6645 to speak with a COVID-19 information representative.
