Tips To Celebrate A COVID-19 Safe Thanksgiving In Rhode Island

PROVIDENCE, RI — Thanksgiving is just over a week away, and with coronavirus cases on the rise in Rhode Island, state leaders urged residents to plan ahead to stay safe at holiday gatherings.

This time last year, Rhode Island was at the start of its bleakest days of the pandemic, when coronavirus cases, hospitalizations and deaths were all soaring in the state. A week after Thanksgiving, then-Gov. Gina Raimondo ordered a two-week "pause" as an effort to slow the spread.

This year, things are looking much better in Rhode Island and across the country. With vaccine numbers on the rise in the state, it's safe to gather with family for Thanksgiving, said Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott, the director of the state's Department of Health.

"This year, we have more discretion," Alexander-Scott said Tuesday. "But don't forget the mitigation measures."

The best way Rhode Islanders can keep themselves and their loved ones safe this holiday season is to get vaccinated against COVID-19, the doctor said. Those who are eligible to get vaccinated, yet choose not to, "are creating a higher risk situation" when it comes to holiday gatherings, Alexander-Scott added.

When planning your Thanksgiving gathering this year, consider following these tips to stay safe and help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the community.

• Get vaccinated against COVID-19 if you are eligible and have not yet done so. Talk to family in advance about vaccination status, and consider only gathering with those who are fully vaccinated.
• Consider mask-wearing, especially at crowded, indoor gatherings.
• Get tested before and after holiday travel.
• If possible, increase ventilation at gatherings, such as by opening a window to allow for airflow.