Treat Yourself to a Spooky, Safe and Healthy Halloween, Health Department Reminds New Yorkers
New Yorkers should practice basic public health precautions this Halloween
October 29, 2021 — With Halloween just around the corner, the Health Department reminds all New Yorkers to practice COVID-19 safety precautions (PDF): stay home if feeling sick, wear a face mask if you’re handing out treats or not fully vaccinated, avoid large gatherings, especially indoors, and keep your hands clean!
“Don’t be tricked by COVID-19 this Halloween!” said Health Commissioner Dr. Dave A Chokshi. “New Yorkers should revel in this year’s spooky season, but we should all be aware that COVID-19 is still spreading in NYC. Continue to follow public health precautions to keep yourself and your family safe this Halloween!”
Tips on Dressing Up:
- Halloween masks are not face masks! If you are not fully vaccinated, wear a face mask over any costume mask. Do not wear a face covering under your costume mask as it may make it hard to breathe.
- Get creative! Wear a costume that includes a face mask – like a doctor, nurse, cowboy, ninja or masked bandit! Or get creative with you face mask by attaching a mustache or whiskers.
Tips on Trick-or-Treating:
- Go prepared. Bring hand sanitizer and make sure everyone ages 2 and older are wearing a face covering.
- Stay outdoors. Trick-or-treat outdoors this year, especially if you are not full vaccinated.
- Back up. Step back 6 feet after ringing or knocking on a door.
- Giving treats. Make sure your hands are clean and wear a face covering. If you are not fully vaccinated, leave a bowl of treats outside your door.
- Candy Check! Inspect candy once you are home to make sure it has not been tampered with. Also make sure to brush and floss after eating sweet treats.
Get Vaccinated!
If you are not yet fully vaccinated, you must continue to follow public health precautions – wear a mask, avoid crowds, stay home if you’re not feeling well and get tested.
A fully vaccinated person is much less likely to get sick or spread the virus that causes COVID-19. It has never been easier to get vaccinated against COVID-19 in New York City. To find a vaccination site, visit nyc.gov/vaccinefinder or call 877-VAX-4NYC (877-829-4692).
Get Tested!
Testing remains an important part of reducing the spread of COVID-19. If you are feeling ill or believe you have been exposed, visit nyc.gov/covidtest or call 311 to find a testing site near you.
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MEDIA CONTACT: Michael Lanza / Shari Logan
PressOffice@health.nyc.gov