As more New Yorkers are getting their first and second doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, parents are wondering: Can we safely celebrate Mother’s Day with extended family when our children are not yet vaccinated?
“We want to celebrate our moms and the important women in our lives, and nurture important family ties especially after so many of us have been socially isolated since the onset of COVID-19, said Betsy Koickel, MD, Associate Medical Director, Northwell Health-GoHealth Urgent Care. “Still, we want to protect those of us who haven’t had the chance to get vaccinated.”
The U.S. Centers for Disease and Prevention recommend that when planning a get together, an outdoor gathering – such as at a restaurant’s patio or in a host’s backyard – is best, and consider alternative rain dates in the event of inclement weather. If dining indoors, be sure that the spaces are well-ventilated. If selecting a restaurant, find out if local eateries maintain occupancy limits and whether celebrating on a less popular day or time may offer better space for social distancing.
Mask wearing, frequent hand washing or sanitizing, and social distancing while out with others, especially those not yet vaccinated, remain vital to reducing the spread of COVID-19 while it is still present in the region.
“Find out in advance who will be at the event and who has been fully vaccinated so that you can make the most informed decision about whether to attend,” said Dr. Koickel. “And if you’re not feeling well on the day of the big celebration, stay home.”
All 52 Northwell Health-GoHealth Urgent Care centers are open extended hours from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekends and are open all holidays – 365 days a year. For more information, visit gohealthuc.com.
