Christmas parties: here is what we can do to limit the risk of contagion

The threat of the Omicron variant and the rise in COVID-19 cases have forced the Quebec government to back down: gatherings of 20 people will ultimately not be allowed for Christmas. New Years Eve will still be allowed, but the limit remains at 10 people. How can I prevent outbreaks? The epidemiologist and lecturer in public health at the University of Montreal Nimâ Machouf answers our questions.

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What to do to limit contagion at home?

There are several tips, says Nimâ Machouf. To understand how the virus is spread, she gives the image of a smoker.

“Think of the virus as cigarette smoke. What would you do to avoid breathing this smoke in a residence? The virus spreads much the same way. You have to see each person as a smoker. ”

Here are some precautions you could take:

• Limit the number of people in the same room;
• Favor large rooms or high ceilings;
• Leave the range hood on;
• Leave windows open a few inches at all times;
• Open the door a few minutes per hour;
• Use an air purifier;
• Keep a good distance from others;
• Set up several tables.

The important thing is therefore to avoid breathing the “smoke” of the other.

Is it okay to attend more than one party?

“We should try to limit them and go only to the most important,” she advises.

At a press briefing Thursday, Prime Minister François Legautl also called on Quebecers to reduce their contacts.

Why not go play outside?

Another good way to limit contagion is to meet outside, says Nimâ Machouf.

“There are plenty of things to do outside in the winter. Take the opportunity to drink a good mulled wine and go for a walk, ”she suggests.

What if we have more than one family reunion planned?

“I believe that we must above all be practical and realistic here: a lot of people will participate in more than one rally. The important thing is that these gatherings are as safe as possible, ”she said.

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Should we go get tested before Christmas Eve?

Everyone should get tested, but we must at all costs avoid further clogging the health care system. The solution: use the rapid tests that will be available to everyone from December 20.

“Although these tests are less precise than diagnostic tests [PCR], they detect the most infectious cases well. They are therefore very useful in preventing transmission to our loved ones, ”she emphasizes.

• Read also: Where to find them? How to use them? Efficient? What you need to know about rapid tests

She also specifies that it is important to use these tests on the day of the rally, and not two or three days before.

Should I avoid inviting Grandma?

As the elderly are among the most vulnerable category of people, it would be best not to invite them into a large group. She recalls that there is no such thing as “zero risk” and that the elderly are more likely to develop complications.

Should we avoid shared dishes (eg potluck, buffet)?

Although this instruction was hammered out last year, the evolution of the situation now allows us to share dishes.

“We now know that the virus doesn’t spread on surfaces like we thought it would last year, so it’s safe to share meals. Just avoid dipping your carrot twice in the dip, ”she advises.

Is it safe to invite someone who is not vaccinated?

“It is absolutely necessary that they do a test in order to limit the risks as much as possible”, she insists. It would also be important for the unvaccinated to stay home if they show symptoms.

It should not be forgotten, however, that the category of non-vaccinated does not represent only vaccine-resistant.

“Children under 5 cannot be vaccinated. Those under 12 are not all and the main sources of contagion are in daycares and schools. It’s unfortunate, but they’re going to be the biggest risk during rallies, ”she said.

I think I have a little flu or a cold – should I skip my turn?

“Yes, absolutely!” exclaims the expert. The tests are effective and so are the preventive measures, but if you have symptoms, even if you think you have a mild flu or a minor cold, you should avoid getting together.

“Make yourself a good meal and contact the family on Zoom,” she suggests.