New coronavirus concerns, suggestions ahead of holidays

SEATTLE — With the holidays approaching, there are new concerns about gatherings and travel.

COVID-19 cases among all age groups are surging in 35 states, including Washington.

The state reported 734 new cases Wednesday and 10 new deaths, raising the death toll to 2,221.

Nearly 7,900 people have been hospitalized.

Infectious Disease Expert Dr. Anthony Fauci said putting your loved one on a plane may not be worth the risk.

“I think people should be very careful and prudent. When you’re talking about relatives that are getting on a plane, being exposed in an airport, being exposed in a plane, and then walk in the door and say, ‘Happy Thanksgiving,’ that you have to be careful about,” said Fauci.

The Washington State Department of Health launched a new webpage to help families assess such difficult decisions.

WDOH’s mantra for celebrations during the pandemic is fewer, shorter and safer.

According to the website, “The more people we interact with at a gathering and the longer that interaction lasts, the higher the risk of becoming infected.”

The state’s guide to gatherings offers innovative alternative solutions for families to connect as well as advice for how to cope when you’re apart.

There’s also an in-depth safety checklist and new takes on old traditions like trick-or-treating.

For example, families can hold a candy hunt, similar to an Easter Egg Hunt, or exchange candy with families they know.

Cox Media Group