This holiday season is the second year we’ll be celebrating the holidays COVID-style. But a recent survey conducted by the Numerator indicates that people are beginning to plan celebrations that look more “normal.” Thanks to the vaccines and other medical improvements, 80% of consumers expect to celebrate one or more of the holidays in their traditional way.
Holiday traditions are important for families with multiple generations to celebrate together. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released their 2021 holiday guidance to help families safely gather and prevent the spread of COVID-19:
- If you haven’t yet, please get fully vaccinated before the holidays.
- Wear well-fitting masks over your nose and mouth if you are not fully vaccinated and in public indoor settings – like the mall when you’re holiday gift shopping.
- If you are considering traveling for the holidays, visit CDC’s Travel page to help you decide what is best for you and your family. The CDC recommends delaying travel until you are fully vaccinated.
By following these guidelines, we can travel, enjoy safer holidays, and protect our health as well as the health of our family and friends.
Reminder: Verify vaccination status now through December 1
All U.S. salaried employees on the GEA health plan need to verify vaccination status in the GEA Health & Benefits Portal by December 1 to avoid a health insurance surcharge starting January 1.
Click here for the vaccination verification process.