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-Press Release, City of Henderson
COVID-19 has changed or influenced how we define our “normal” for 2020. As we enter the fall season and quickly approach Halloween, we should remain vigilant with our efforts to reduce the threat of COVID-19 in our community. The event of Halloween is known to bring an abundance of people into close contact, and many traditional Halloween activities can be high-risk for spreading viruses.
Due to the pandemic, this year the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services “strongly recommends” against traditional door-to-door trick-or-treating in favor of lower risk activities. Residents of Henderson are advised to consider NCDHHS’s Halloween event guidance when determining whether to participate in Halloween celebrations (https://files.nc.gov/covid/documents/guidance/NCDHHS-Interim-Guidance-for-Halloween.pdf).
There are several safer, alternative ways to participate in Halloween. Please be on the lookout for lowered risk alternatives within our community.
Celebrating virtually or with members of your own household poses a low risk for spreading the virus, while in-person gatherings pose varying levels of risk. When participating in any activity, participants should consider the risk of virus spread based upon the activity’s size and the host’s use of mitigation strategies. Remember the three W’s, Wear, Wait, and Wash.
Per the CDC, a costume mask (such as for Halloween) is not a substitute for a cloth mask. A costume mask should not be used unless it is made of two or more layers of breathable fabric that covers the mouth and nose and doesn’t leave gaps around the face. Do not wear a costume mask over a protective cloth mask because it can be dangerous if the costume mask makes it hard to breathe. Instead, consider using a Halloween-themed cloth mask.
If you may have COVID-19 or you may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, you should not participate in in-person Halloween festivities and should not give out candy to trick-or-treaters.