Many people may be concerned about how this year’s trick or treating can affect those who have yet to be vaccinated. Health officials across the country are giving the greenlight for celebrating Halloween this year, proving it’s a “low risk” activity towards Covid-19. Halloween is very popular, and now that things are slowly returning back to what seems to be normal people at home should expect a lot more visitors this year. As kids look forward to showing off their costumes and collecting a pillowcase full of candy, parents should keep in mind the spookiest threat this Halloween, the seasonal flu. The severe flu season is unfolding alongside an ongoing pandemic, overwhelming the healthcare system and can put lots of lives in jeopardy.

Those who already have one of the two viruses are more vulnerable to getting the other. Since children any younger than 11 are not yet eligible to receive the Covid vaccine, their health is at higher risk even with the flu shot because it takes weeks to kick in. That’s why it’s important for adults and older kids,  especially if they’re unvaccinated, to practice pandemic safety around younger kids this Halloween.

In order to prevent any further spread of the virus, our community and others should follow the following safety protocols sent out by Mass.gov

• Enjoy Halloween outside rather than attending indoor events.
• Place candy on a platter instead of a bowl
• Instead of traditional trick-or -treating, opt for one-way trick-or-treating, with treats placed outside of the home for trick-or-treaters as a “grab and go” while keeping distance from others.
• Consider leaving hand sanitizer by any treats left out for trick-or-treaters to use.
• Wear a face mask or face covering.  For more information on face masks and face coverings, please see the state’s Mask Up MA webpage.
  • A costume mask is not a substitute for a face mask or face covering.  To protect yourself and others, ensure you are wearing a protective face mask or covering instead of or in addition to a costume mask.  
• Observe good hand hygiene, including hand washing and use of alcohol-based sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol.  Carry hand sanitizer and use it often, especially after coming into contact with frequently touched surfaces and before eating candy.
• Refrain from touching your face.
• Decorate your yard for others to enjoy from their car or while on a socially-distanced walk.
• Hold virtual costume contests or pumpkin carving events.
• Celebrate with members of your household with a Halloween-themed meal, Halloween movie night, or by preparing a Halloween scavenger hunt.
• Maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet of physical distance from all other participants who are not members of the same household.
• Avoid:
  • Attending crowded costume parties held indoors, or any gatherings that exceed indoor or outdoor gathering limits;
  • Going to an indoor haunted house where people may be crowded together and screaming; and
  • Going on hayrides or tractor rides with people who are not in your household.
  • Stay home and refrain from Halloween activities, including handing out Halloween treats.