It’s almost Christmas Day and families are again reminded to stay home and avoid large gatherings that are part of the tradition of noche buena on Christmas Eve.

The Department of Health (DOH) reminds the public to avoid large family gatherings to prevent the surge in COVID-19 cases and to follow health and safety protocols as the coronavirus disease is still a threat to lives.

The DOH recommends the following tips on how to safely celebrate Christmas Eve:

One, keep the gathering small to include only those in your immediate household. No guests. 

DOH Secretary Francisco Duque III said that “any large gathering of people is considered a risk to one’s health.”

“No one can be sure where the virus may be present. It would be wiser, at this time of pandemic, to simply stay  at home during this Yuletide season and limit the celebration to household members only,” he said. 

Two: Keep the Christmas activity short and ensure proper ventilation.

“Hold family and social gatherings and activities outdoors as much as possible. If activities will be held indoors, ensure that fresh air is introduced to the venue through open doors and windows and avoid air-conditioning settings which recirculate air,” the DOH said.  

Three: Clean and disinfect the area regularly and ensure proper disposal of waste especially used tissues and face masks.  

Four:  Be mindful of proper hand hygiene before and after exchanging gifts.  “Hand washing facilities and/or hand sanitizers and disinfectants must be readily available,” the DOH said. 

Five: Pre-plated food service is encouraged. Buffet-style food service may increase contact among individuals, the DOH said. 

Six:  The better way to spend Christmas Eve together or to reconnect with relatives is to use digital technology. DOH suggests using technology to hold virtual parties, or virtual visits on Christmas Day.

“Going out, visiting relatives and friends and attending family reunions are possible sources of infection as one cannot ascertain the exposure of and health status of other people,” Duque said. 

Seven:  Do not include karaoke singing even in a small gathering. Activities such as singing and shouting increase the risk of COVID-19 transmission because of the possible spread of respiratory droplets.

Eight: For gifts, the DOH suggests gifts that promote safety such as face masks and face shields. 

Duque also suggested giving items that promote a healthy lifestyle. 

“Healthy food and fruits, exercise gadgets/equipment that promote physical activity and help improve body resistance against diseases may also be given as holiday presents. 

Moreover, DOH also encourages do-it-yourself gifts to limit in-store shopping,” said Duque. 

“We can also give DIY gifts that will not require us to go shopping, like handmade cards, arts and crafts, or a video. Such gifts make it more personal and also keep you from going to crowded places, thus reducing the risk of acquiring or transmitting the virus,” he added. 

But aside from these tangible presents, the best gift for this Christmas is to be COVID-free. 

“The virus is very much around and is still among us, and no one can be sure who the virus carrier is...A COVID-free holiday is one of the best gifts we can give to our loved ones,” said Duque.