...and here’s why the specialists think that is good counsel
Bring your own dinnerware, cutlery, food and drink. Consider single-use options
WHY? Because the virus can spread on surfaces, minimising the handling of certain objects is very important. Bringing your own plates and cutlery to the Christmas celebrations, and only using them, can cut down on the handling of these objects between other people.
Wear a face mask/covering and store it safely when eating and drinking
WHY? One of the best things people can do to avoid spreading the disease is to simply wear a mask while in close contact with other people.
Have one person do all the serving and avoid areas where food is being handled and prepared
WHY? This is once again to cut down on the handling of shared objects or touching of surfaces where the virus can live and spread. Surfaces should also be cleaned regularly.
Don’t pass the gravy boat and only use single condiment packets
WHY? Throughout Christmas dinner condiments and gravy are going to be routinely passed around but this should not happen, because it provides the virus the opportunity to spread on to these objects. Best to use condiment packets and serve the dinner with gravy already on it.
Limit the number of guests WHY? Limiting the number of guests will limit the number of loved ones and members of the family who could potentially be infected should an outbreak occur. They would then spread the virus further afield.
If celebrating indoors make sure it is well ventilated
WHY? This will be difficult for people, given the fact that it will be deep into winter, but ventilating an area by opening doors and windows is very important to minimise the spread of the virus. Heaters can be utilised if the rooms get too cold.
Stagger when people eat and do not sit down directly opposite one another
WHY? Staggering eating times means less people will be close to each other but on top of this everyone should avoid sitting directly opposite another person. Instead, sit a good distance away from each other.
Do not spend too long in each other’s company
WHY? The longer you spend in someone else’s company the greater the chances are of contracting the virus from that other person. People should avoid spending long periods of Christmas Day in each other’s company for that reason.