OHA recommends not trick-or-treating this Halloween
Published today, the first of the spookiest month of the year, the Oregon Health Authority has issued a statement regarding traditional trick-or-treat plans, and tips on how to stay safe this Halloween.
“People in Oregon are creative, they care about their community and they know it’s important to celebrate safely,” writes the OHA. “This year, it’s more important than ever to put safety first because COVID-19 cases have risen recently during holiday gatherings.”
Prior to October kicking off, the Center for Disease Control also published a very similar recommendation, advising people that there is little to no way to stay safe during a holiday like Halloween. Oregon’s health professionals echoed that today.
“Choosing low-risk Halloween plans can help to prevent the spread of COVID-19 illness, decrease the impact on Oregon’s health care system, and save lives,” continues the OHA update. “Oregon Health Authority is recommending that Oregonians avoid traditional door-to-door trick or treating and “Trunk or Treat” events.”
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Some of the events that the OHA suggest are things like hosting a scary movie watch night online, or holding a costume contest via Zoom or Skype. Regardless of what you can think of, the health authorities simply want Oregonians to remain in physical contact with their own household, and to avoid potential virus spread to others.
“If you dress up in a costume, be careful to plan a costume that allows you to wear a face covering,” said State Health Officer Dr. Dean Sidelinger. “Halloween masks will not protect you or others from coronavirus. Wearing a cloth or disposable face mask that fits snugly and covers your mouth and nose is still required while wearing a costume, no matter how scary or silly your costume is.”
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