Staying Safe in the Community
As we move into the holiday season, we want to provide some tips and guidance for you and your loved ones, so that you can have a happy and healthy holiday season.
#1 Avoid the Three Cs to Reduce the Risk
Did you know there are three factors that can increase the risk of COVID-19? Your risk further increases when the three Cs overlap. To stay safe, you should avoid:
- Closed spaces with poor ventilation
- Crowded places
- Close contact situations
#2 Practice the Three Ws to Stay Safe
Small adjustments, practiced regularly, can make a big impact. By making the three Ws part of your routine throughout the day, you can help to keep yourself, and those around you stay safe:
- Wash your hands frequently and for a minimum of 20 seconds
- Watch your distance (2 meters/6 feet apart) from others outside of your household/building
- Wear your mask when in public, especially when physical distancing can’t be maintained.
What does this mean for holiday shopping and festive activities? Here are some ways to make your usual holiday scenarios safer this year while practicing the three Ws.
- Curbside pick-up: Avoid the crowded mall. Many local businesses are still offering curbside pickup. You can order all of your usual gifts online or by phone and have them delivered right to your car. BONUS You can avoid battling for a parking stall and stay toasty and warm in your vehicle.
- Visits and Events: Make sure to follow the provincial restrictions for personal and organized gatherings. Gathering outside is a good option either way, grab your toques, scarves, and an extra layer and enjoy a fresh afternoon.
- Plan ahead: Pick a day to look at your calendar and create a list of what you need to get you through to the season. Have one family member complete as many errands as possible in one outing. By reducing the number of times you need to pop out to get “just one thing” you can actively avoid the Three Cs. BONUS You will be less stressed knowing your holiday to-do list is done nice and early.
# 3 Getting your Flu Shot
Influenza immunization is a priority this year, with the unique circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic and the strain it has put on the healthcare system.
All Albertans, aged five and older, are being encouraged to protect themselves and those around them against influenza this year by getting a flu shot.
The Importance of Being Immunized: Influenza
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues into yet another fall and winter, we are also preparing for the increased spread of another virus: influenza, more commonly known as the flu.
Flu cases were low last year because we were in a province-wide lockdown. This year, however, we’re seeing more people socializing in-person, commuting to work, travelling and being out and about in the community.
This means we will likely see an increase of all viruses compared to last year, including COVID-19 and the flu.
To help protect our residents – who are most at risk at experiencing serious complications due to the influenza virus - flu clinics have been held at all of our sites. We encourage families to help us keep our residents safe and healthy but booking their free flu shot this year.
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