Deck the halls with boughs of holly…fa la la la la, la la la la! It’s the season of much cheer once again, and I bet you are already mapping out your trips and fun plans with loved ones to paint the town a bright Christmas red. Unfortunately, the holidays this year are going to be markedly different from others you’ve celebrated, as I’m sure you realize.
Yup, the Grinch with plans to steal Christmas is the virus – Covid-19 – that has plagued the world since its discovery late last year. The virus found its way to the shores of Nigeria around March this year and has resulted in thousands of infected cases – travel being one of the high-risk activities.
It’s December now and the numbers have kept rising, but don’t let your shoulders slump just yet. If you still choose to travel anywhere, we have got you covered with helpful tips to stay Covid-19 free as you get your Christmas groove on!
Alright then, let’s run through the checklist!
1. Consider all factors at play in your travel
Safety is the keyword, but this is still dependent on a number of factors you need to consider this period. Are you going to be travelling alone or in a group? Are there going to be children travelling with you? What means of transportation are you going to be using – flight, public transport, or private transport? Where will you stay – your home, a large family house, or hotel? I am sure you get my drift by now. The answers to these questions will help you plan your safety precautions better.
2. Know your facts and statistics
If you are going to be travelling to a location you are not thoroughly used to, it is important to understand the Covid-19 situation in that location. What is the exposure rate and spread of infection there? What is the response rate of their medical facilities? Are the hospitals there overwhelmed with cases of Covid-19?
If the casualty rate is on the high side, then you should rethink your travel plans, make a plan B or postpone to a later date instead. You don’t want to blame it on ignorance if you walk into the waiting arms of the virus because you were lax in carrying out due research.
3. Avoid crowded places and mask up
The Christmas spirit is going to try to pull you along to all the parties and gatherings but it is imperative you resist the temptation firmly. Stay at home and try to spend as little time in crowded places as possible so that you limit your exposure to the deadly virus. Take advantage of off-peak times and different worship times that support persons at higher risk.
Get back in good grace with your bottle of sanitizer and face masks, and ensure that they accompany you to all your visits. Hey, you can’t be too careful especially when relatives and friends come around during the Christmas holidays. Remember, they are not danger-free simply because they are family. Always pack a bottle with high alcohol content for yourself and make sure you regularly apply it.
4. Wash your hands and limit physical contact
Fela’s classic, “Water e no get enemy” comes to mind here. For absolute safety, you need to take your hygiene more seriously. I would go as far as suggesting you set reminders on your phone if you get carried away and are likely to forget, especially if you have children running around.
A “no-touch” policy cannot be overemphasized for practicing safety in this pandemic, especially when you are outdoors. As tempting as it is to hug that friend you haven’t seen for long, please avoid physical contact! Skip the hugs, kisses, and excited handshakes and ensure that you wear your mask, and strictly practice social distancing.
5. Be strategic with your party planning
As is the norm in most traditional settings, Christmas is the period with the most events, with dignitaries and lots of other people invited to grace a variety of occasions. Remember to take precautions in your event/party planning. Check the temperatures of your guests, limit the number of invitees, and cut down on the timing of the celebration. Remember, the less time people are gathered together, the lower the risk of contracting or spreading the virus. You might want to rethink your cutlery set and replace them with disposables. Be careful during gift exchange and ensure that a single point of contact is used to reduce exposure.
Frankly, to be safer this Christmas, you should probably cancel all travel plans altogether. However, if you still decide to travel, take all necessary precautions and be strict in following through so that you can enjoy all that the jolly season has to offer, in good health. Happy Holidays!