Tips for a Healthy and Safe Thanksgiving

The City of St. Louis Department of Health is reminding residents that community-wide spread of SARS CoV-2 the virus that causes COVID-19 continues. Residents are being encouraged to exercise caution during their Thanksgiving celebrations to protect themselves and their families from the virus as well as get vaccinated. 

“COVID-19 vaccines are the best tools we currently have to protect ourselves and our loved ones from severe complications, hospitalizations, and death from COVID-19,” says Dr. Mati Hlatshwayo Davis, Director of Health for the City of St. Louis. “I encourage St. Louisans to enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday while taking steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to stay safe.”

The Department of Health recommends following the tips below to help increase the chances of having a healthy and safe gathering:

• Do not attend or host a gathering if you feel sick.
• Consider a virtual celebration if there are unvaccinated individuals who might be 
• attending. 
• Ask visitors to get tested for COVID-19 prior to attending a gathering.
• Allow for physical distancing when making seating arrangements at your gathering. 
• If weather permits, consider celebrating outdoors.
• Wear a face covering if a member of your household has a weakened immune system, is at increased risk for severe disease, or is unvaccinated.

Visit stlouis-mo.gov/covid-19/vaccine or vaccines.gov and enter your zip code for the nearest location to obtain a vaccine.