Marking Yule free of virus

With Christmas and New Year just around the corner, an environmental health organization Tuesday urged Filipino families to celebrate safely and sustainably as the entire world grapples with the unprecedented climate, plastic and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) woes, according to a health advocacy group.

The group said preventing and reducing trash, exposure to harmful chemicals, and the risk of coronavirus infection can help Filipinos enjoy the Christmas season.

The highlight of the Filipino Catholic calendar was altered to become a purely consumerist’s raucous revelry and be a responsible steward of Mother Earth.

“The COVID-19 health crisis necessitates that we celebrate differently and keep safety top of mind. We can't let our guard down against this dreadful virus," the group added.

The tips for a safe celebration provided by the group included:

* Shop online rather than in person whenever feasible to avoid packed malls that are teeming with holiday shoppers;

* If you need to get out of your home to shop, go to less crowded places that are well- ventilated and where basic health protocols are duly enforced such as physical distancing and the wearing of masks and shields;

* Avoid buying Christmas gifts or groceries at the last minute to avoid large crowds in malls and markets. Beat the holiday rush by buying what you need ahead of the Christmas week;

* Refrain from engaging in activities that pose higher risk of spreading COVID- 19 such as big gatherings, parties, binge drinking and karaoke singing with persons who do not live in your household;