December 09, 2021

Grey Bruce Public Health on COVID-19 and seasonal celebrations: stay home if sick

Celebrations, including those that are cultural and religious, are important activities for mental and social wellbeing. Celebrations and gatherings provide a way to feel connected to our family, friends and community during COVID-19. Events and gatherings have the potential to increase the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

There are many things that we can all do to help prevent the transmission and spread of the COVID-19 virus.

Perhaps the most important thing to remember this Holiday season is to stay home if you have symptoms. In addition, the following precautions should be followed to reduce the likelihood of COVID-19 transmission this Holiday Season.

Stay home if you have COVID-19 symptoms, even if your symptoms are mild or if you are vaccinated
Get your full series of the COVID-19 vaccine. COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective and the best way to help protect yourself, your loved ones and your community from the spread of COVID-19.

Stay two metres apart from people you don’t live with
Wear a mask or face covering properly in indoor public spaces and outside any time physical distancing is not possible — you may be fined if you don’t
Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer
Cover your cough and sneeze and cough into your sleeve
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
Get tested if you have symptoms compatible with COVID-19, or if you've been advised of exposure by public health or through the COVID Alert mobile app;
Download the COVID Alert app;
Work from home or remotely as much as possible;
Follow international travel guidelines

“I thank and commend all who have maintained the diligent effort to contain the spread of this virus.” Says Dr. Ian Arra – Medical Officer of Health for Grey Bruce. “The last present anyone of us wants to give our families and friends is a COVID-19 infection; safe holidays is what our families and communities deserve.”

For detailed information on Holiday Guidance regarding COVID-19, please visit:

Considerations for Celebrations

Celebrate safely during COVID-19 | ontario.ca

COVID-19 public health measures and advice | COVID-19 (coronavirus) in Ontario

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