As we approach the holiday season, many words have become part of our daily conversations that we rarely used before 2020. Terms like “quarantine,” “social distancing,” and even “masks” have become commonplace. But there’s one term that has taken on a new, more serious meaning: “bubble.”
This seemingly innocent word, which once conjured thoughts of childhood play and bath time, now carries significant weight. If you ask ten people about their holiday plans this year, a few might mention gathering with a “small group” they consider “safe” because they’re in their bubble.
Through our ongoing battle with COVID-19, we’ve learned that spending time with the same people regularly might be safer since we share the same airspace. However, the problem arises when people begin to expand their bubbles beyond what’s safe. Once you let in Grandma Betty, Uncle Tom, and a few cousins, the bubble is no longer intact. It’s fragile, and once it bursts, it allows outside germs to seep in.
To truly celebrate Thanksgiving safely, it should only be with those you live with—the people you share your home, bathroom, and meals with daily. This does not include Aunt Betty, who lives down the street or any other relatives. They should stay in their own bubbles, enjoy their own dinners, and connect with you virtually to keep everyone safe.
It’s essential to recognize the seriousness of this pandemic. With so many lives lost, we must prioritize safety over traditions. Nirav Shah, the director of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention in Maine, warns that bubbles are becoming too large, leading to increased risks.
Like many, I also miss large family gatherings during Thanksgiving. Conversations about safety with my children’s grandparents have been difficult, knowing we won’t be sharing those cherished moments this year. But as hard as it is, we must prioritize health over holiday festivities.
COVID-19 remains indifferent to our desires to gather, and it can easily spread in seemingly harmless situations, like recounting a funny story from years ago. A simple laugh could lead to the virus making its way to vulnerable family members, ultimately risking their lives.
As the pandemic surges, medical professionals are urging people to refrain from gatherings, especially indoors. Dr. Natascha Tuznik from UC Davis Health stresses that having an indoor dinner is particularly risky if anyone from outside your household is involved.
Instead of gathering in person, we have technology to keep us connected. Using video calls or even old-fashioned phone calls can help maintain the spirit of the holidays while keeping everyone safe. Remember, unless they live with you, Grandpa is not in your bubble.
Consider the potential risks. A neighbor could unknowingly bring in germs, a teenager’s new boyfriend might not be taking safety seriously, and before you know it, your gathering has turned into a risk-laden event.
Cities and states are implementing stricter guidelines as COVID-19 cases rise. Indoor gatherings are being limited, with health officials emphasizing that smaller numbers decrease risk. The larger the gathering, the higher the chance of exposure, regardless of how safe you think your circle is.
Don’t let your desire for a traditional Thanksgiving compromise your loved ones’ health. COVID-19 doesn’t care about your traditions or how much you miss family gatherings.
This could be Grandma’s last holiday if precautions aren’t taken, and living with the guilt of that choice is something no one should have to endure.
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Summary:
As we navigate the challenges of celebrating holidays during a pandemic, it’s crucial to understand the concept of bubbles and their limitations. Gathering with those outside your household can pose significant health risks, especially with the ongoing spread of COVID-19. Prioritizing safety by celebrating only with those you live with and utilizing technology to connect with loved ones can help protect everyone’s health.