NO BUFFETS, OUTREACH PROGRAMS

DOH discourages Christmas parties involving different households

The Department of Health (DOH) on Saturday advised the public to hold Christmas parties among members in the same household as it warned of potential rise in COVID-19 cases should they invite people from different households.

“‘Wag na muna magkaroon ng pagtitipon-tipon... ‘wag na muna magkaroon ng pagpunta sa kamag-anakan this coming holiday dahil ‘yan ay napaka-risky at maaring magdulot ng pagtaas uli ng kaso sa ating bansa,” Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said during the Laging Handa briefing.

“Party within the household lamang,” she said, noting that household parties should observe minimum health protocols such as physical distancing.

“‘Wag na muna buffet-style na kainan,” she said.

The Health official also discouraged both national government agencies and local government units from conducting outreach programs since such activities “is going to draw crowds.”

If holding such a program cannot be avoided, she said minimum health standards must be enforced such as observing physical distancing, wearing face masks and shields, and limiting the number of people in a venue.

Vergeire earlier said that in areas under general community quarantine (GCQ), up to 10 people are allowed in a gathering. Those under modified GCQ could have until 50 guests.

The DOH earlier issued guidelines on upcoming Christmas celebrations.

Aside from warning against singing karaoke with people other than those you live with at home, the DOH also advised to limit social interaction to less than 15 minutes.

This is because of a recent study that says even 15 minutes of interaction can result in COVID-19 infection.

It would also be better if celebrations would be held in well-ventilated areas or open spaces. -MDM, GMA News