Holiday Travel Tips for Pregnant Women Amid COVID-19
As the holiday season approaches with Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa, many expectant mothers, like Chelsea, are faced with the challenge of celebrating safely amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Chelsea, who is 23 weeks pregnant, is considering visiting her family in another state. With her sister’s newborn and elderly grandparents also involved, she wants to ensure everyone’s safety. Here’s a guide to help navigate these complex decisions.
Consider Staying Local
The safest way to celebrate is to stay local and limit in-person gatherings to your household. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identifies pregnant women as a group at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19, making this a particularly important consideration.
Preparation is Key
If travel is unavoidable, prepare ahead. Minimize exposure by limiting trips, maintaining social distance, and sticking to essential outings only. Practice the basics: handwashing, mask-wearing, and distancing. Consider a COVID-19 test before departure, especially if symptomatic. Remember, the test is not foolproof, but it can be part of your safety toolbox.
Travel Safely
Driving can minimize exposure, but if flying or using public transport is necessary, be prepared with hand sanitizer and masks. Also, get a flu shot at least 14 days prior to travel to protect against the flu, which can complicate COVID-19 symptoms.
Assess the Risks
Consider the health of those you’re visiting. High-risk individuals, such as older adults or those with underlying conditions, require special consideration. Virtual gatherings might be the safer choice if risk factors are present.
Precautions During Gatherings
If gatherings occur, prefer outdoor settings with masks and social distancing. Smaller groups are safer, and the current spread of COVID-19 in both your area and your destination should guide your decisions.
Food Safety
Enjoy pregnancy-safe foods, avoiding alcohol and soft cheeses. Minimize contact with shared utensils by having designated servers and encourage hand hygiene. Individual servings or ready-to-eat items reduce risk.
Post-Gathering Vigilance
After attending gatherings, monitor for COVID-19 symptoms. If symptoms develop or if exposed, contact healthcare providers and inform others who may have been exposed, following local health department guidance.
This holiday season, safety is paramount. For more tips on celebrating safely, visit the CDC’s COVID-19 holiday guidance and the MotherToBaby fact sheet on pregnancy and breastfeeding. Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season!
