The Washoe County Health District put out guidelines for Thanksgiving during the pandemic on Thursday.
Officials are urging Nevadans to refrain from attending or hosting Thanksgiving gatherings with people outside of the household due to the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
They said it can have serious complications on vulnerable populations, especially the elderly.
Other underlying health conditions that the CDC said could lead to higher COVID-19 risk implications include:
- Obesity
- Hypertension
- Cancer
- Chronic kidney disease
- COPD
- Heart conditions
- Diabetes
- Asthma
The CDC is recommending safer ways to celebrate Thanksgiving, which means gathering only with household members, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing of six feet apart, including chairs and tables. Other measures include:
- Limit gathering in kitchen or other food-prep areas
- Use single-use options, like salad dressing and condiment packets, and disposable items like food containers, plates, and utensils
- Eat outdoors or keep windows open indoors, if weather permits
- Have guests bring their own food and drinks
- Communicate expectations ahead of time
The most common activity associated with COVID-19 cases in Washoe County has been small gatherings like holiday celebrations, barbecues, birthday parties, weddings and other social activities.
