Coronavirus Tip: Health Chiefs Urge People To Plan For Winter, Halloween And Christmas With Covid-19

Health chiefs are urging people to plan ahead for the winter months as the country learns to live with the coronavirus.

And special attention has been paid to large events such as Halloween and Christmas, as more cases are confirmed every day.

Acting Medical Director Dr. Ronan Glynn moved tonight to urge people that the National Public Health Emergency Team in no way “cancel” major events.

However, he did note that advice will be issued to the public on what behavior they should take when those events occur later this year.

Speaking tonight, Dr. Glynn said, “Let no message come out of this press conference tonight that NPHET will cancel Halloween or Christmas.

“I’ve seen some comments on social media that it’s only a matter of time before we tell people how to cheat or treat.

He added that many people have “internalized” public health messages and “know what to do to stay safe.”

“I’m sure that as the moment approaches we will be able to give some specific messages to help people to socialize and do things safely at that time.

“It goes back to the key message that the biggest predictor of how safe or unsafe it will be to participate in activities on Halloween or Christmas or any other time is the underlying circulating levels of the virus.”

Meanwhile, Professor Pete Lunn, founder and director of ESRI’s Behavioral Research Unit, said; “Now is the time to plan for the next winter months.

“Take control of your own environment by making sure your home is up to date and acts on public health advice.

“Get into the habit of going outside, socializing and exercising safely and automatically distancing yourself physically from others. Adapt to responsible coexistence behaviors inside and outside the home.

“Plan the milestones; such as Halloween, Christmas and New Year’s Eve within a COVID-19 environment.

“Be innovative in how you can safely celebrate with your loved ones.

“This year will bring additional challenges, so prioritize your mental and physical health, know how you will invest in them each week.

“Pick your close network of social visitors this winter and prioritize family members or friends who may be more isolated.”