Upcoming holiday tips and tricks

 

To: Residential care facilities (Nursing Homes, Assisted Living Facilities, Group Homes, and Intermediate Care Facilities)   From: CDPHE Residential Care Strike Team and Infection Prevention Unit    During the holidays, many people celebrate many different things, and each celebration and tradition is special. What so many of us have in common is the desire to gather with friends and family and the desire to keep each other safe during the pandemic. This year, we are fortunate to have lifesaving vaccines available that will allow us to gather more safely, especially when complemented by other basic public health protocols.    Getting a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine before gathering with others is the single best way to prevent the spread of the virus. Some adults 18 and older who are fully vaccinated should also now get booster doses to stay protected. If it has been at least six months since you got your second dose of Pfizer or Moderna, or at least two months since you got the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, get a booster dose. You can get any type of vaccine for your booster. It doesn't have to be the same type as the vaccine you already received.   COVID-19 vaccines and boosters are available at more than a thousand providers across the state. It’s free to get vaccinated, and you don’t need an ID or insurance.    The Colorado Dementia Partnership has provided a handout for planning a meaningful remote visit during COVID-19.    For more general information on celebrating the holidays safely, see the guide to fall and winter holidays web page.    Questions can be directed to:   residentialcarestriketeam@state.co.us. cdphe_covid_infection_prevention@state.co.us