Can we celebrate Christmas with our loved ones if we are recovering from a major virus like COVID-19? Experts advocate common sense

The tens of thousands of Quebecers who have been infected with COVID-19 or another respiratory virus in recent days should not all cancel their Christmas dinners, believe several experts who advocate “common sense” and reasonable caution during celebrations.

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The respiratory virus season has been in full swing in Quebec for several weeks. On this Christmas Eve, many are asking the question: should I cancel my family dinner if I recently had COVID-19?

Experts’ answer: no. But caution is required.

Five to seven days of contagion

In fact, most patients are no longer contagious after five to seven days of symptoms and can therefore celebrate Christmas with complete peace of mind. This can be up to 10 days in some cases.

“It’s common sense,” advocates the D^r Karl Weiss, microbiologist-infectious disease specialist at the Jewish General Hospital in Montreal. Is the risk zero? No. Is this a high risk of transmission? No, especially if you are healthy and have already had COVID-19.”

“We experienced a great collective trauma with COVID-19. But now there is high vaccination coverage. […] You don’t have to go crazy and cancel everything. I don’t think this is the solution. When in doubt, you just have to be responsible,” also believes Kevin L’Espérance, epidemiologist and doctoral candidate in public health at the University of Montreal.

In addition to COVID-19, the latest variant of which is very contagious, several respiratory viruses circulate extensively (influenza, respiratory syncytial virus). Everyone agrees on one point: if you are very sick and have a fever, it is better to stay at home.

“With a fever, it has never been a good idea to go to a family party,” recalls Benoit Barbeau, virologist at the University of Quebec in Montreal. We have to be aware and responsible.”

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Obviously, certain other factors must be considered: vulnerable people (babies, seniors, chronically ill people) must be better protected. However, for the D^r Weiss, the benefits of a family gathering also count in the balance.

“COVID is here to stay, everyone will get it again, that’s for sure,” he admits. But the overall impact is still minimal on the health network.”

Get tested for prevention?

According to specialists, Quebecers should think about getting tested for COVID-19 before going to their Christmas dinner.

“Now that we have this tool, people need to use it,” believes Nimâ Machouf, epidemiologist. If it can help avoid problems for the people we love, it’s worth it.”

“If the test is positive, you are probably still contagious. But it is possible to be contagious without having symptoms,” underlines Mr. L’Espérance.

Furthermore, M^me Machouf emphasizes that cases of long COVID are still numerous, especially among those who have not been vaccinated (up to 15% to 20% of people).

“It’s like playing Russian roulette,” she warns. After three infections, the risk of long COVID increases. […] That’s why it should be avoided.”