Gather safely during the holidays

Published on December 20, 2021

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As you gather with friends and family, keep COVID-19 in mind. Take steps to prevent its spread.

  • Get vaccinated, including a booster shot 
  • Keep gatherings small 
  • If your guests are unvaccinated or you don’t know their status, plan gatherings that are small, short and outdoors.
  • When gathering inside, ventilate well. Open doors and windows, run HVAC systems and install high-quality air filters.
  • Check local conditions. Your county may have stricter guidance than the state. Take extra precautions when local levels of virus transmission are high. 
  • Get tested if you have COVID-19 symptoms 
  • Stay home if you are sick
  • Wear a mask over your nose and mouth:
    • When social distancing is not possible
    • Taking precautions when you might be around unvaccinated people
    • When around older individuals or people with medical conditions 

Starting Wednesday, December 15, 2021, everyone in California is required to wear a mask indoors in public places regardless of vaccination status. The mandate is in effect until January 15, 2022. This new measure brings an added layer of mitigation as the Omicron variant is detected across California. Learn more at CDPH’s Holiday Gatherings & Travel page.