LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — In two weeks Thanksgiving Day will be here.
And the celebrations may be different due to additional COVID-19 cases and deaths around the country continue in November.
CORONAVIRUS: Nevada reports more than 1,400 new cases, 14.3% positivity rate
But many will want to give thanks for their blessings, loved ones and health without putting anyone at risk.
"You really want the soundest advice? Thanksgiving should be conducted the way this interview is. I'm in one space and you're in another, and there's no virus passed between us," said Dr. Bruce Morgenstern.
Dr. Morgenstern, the senior executive dean for clinical affairs at Roseman University College of Medicine, says everyone should still be aware of the dangers of the coronavirus.
"Are you going to stay with your family? Do you know if everybody in the family hasn't been exposed? Are you certain you haven't been exposed? Are you putting people at risk? These are real concerns. It's such a real concern that between my friends and family, we have decided we're all going to stay home for Thanksgiving," Dr. Morgenstern said.
That would mean no food sharing or hugs with your loved ones.
So, if you're planning on getting together, here are some tips from the CDC on what you can do to minimize the risk of having COVID-19 as another guest during Thanksgiving dinner:
-Wear a face covering
-Practice physical distancing
-Wash your hands
-Use single- option and disposable items
-Plan an outdoor Thanksgiving feast (more space and fresh air around)
-Check travel restrictions
And if you're planning to travel out of state, Dr. Morgenstern said you should get your flu vaccine before your trip and you may need to start your self-quarantine ASAP to have that two-week recommended period.
What to know before you hit the road to neighboring states
"The challenge is that most of us don't know how to do that because quarantining is hard. You need to figure out how you're going to get your groceries and be strict, but that's not easy," expressed Dr. Morgenstern.
