Health Department provides added guidance for Halloween activities

PIMA COUNTY, October 21, 2020 – While many of our favorite Halloween activities may look different this year, the Health Department encourages families to have a plan for their fun. In addition to hosting online or drive by/in Halloween activities, which are lower risk, there are layers of protection that you and people in your neighborhood should use if you do chose to do more traditional holiday activities:

If you will be handing out candy – give treats outdoors instead of at the doorstep or other enclosed spaces. Avoid direct contact with trick-or-treaters by setting up a table or station with pre-packaged treats for kids to take. Prevent groups of children and others from bunching up by keeping decorations and other obstacles clear from pathways. Be sure to wear a mask while out.

For adults – Bring hand sanitizer and take “clean hand” breaks for children and adults. Take your time and be mindful of keeping six feet of distance from others. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before eating any treats. Keep yourself or any family members at home if they are sick. Make sure to wear a cloth mask as well.

“The actions we take to protect ourselves and others are all about layering different actions to prevent spreading respiratory illnesses like COVID-19 and even the flu,” said Dr. Theresa Cullen, Health Department Director. “These steps work best when used together. Hand washing and wearing a mask and staying physically distant, even in these settings, is better than not taking any precautions.”

The Health Department still recommends enjoying activities that prevent close contact with others and reminds everyone that we are still seeing cases of COVID-19 in Pima County. As many fall activities in southern Arizona are happening, the Health Department continues to closely monitor for increases and potential outbreaks of the virus.