As we count down the remaining days of 2022, many of us will be socializing with friends and families. After the long months of lockdown in the early pandemic when many of us had to miss family and holiday celebrations, it’s wonderful to be able to resume our traditions to help celebrate the season.

However, we must pay attention to people in our families and communities who are more vulnerable to the ravages of this virus. As the Washington Post recently reported, nearly 90% of COVID-19 deaths are now among people aged 65 and older. Here are a few things you can do to help keep your older relatives safe this holiday season:

• Make sure you and your family are up to date on booster shots. You can find vaccine locations in Minnesota using this website from the Department of Health.

• Pay attention to case rates. The University of Minnesota is currently running a project that monitors viral loads from over 40 wastewater treatment plans across the state. Paying attention to your local case rates can help you make informed decisions about what kind of socializing you feel comfortable with this December.

• Have people test at home before gathering! All households in Minnesota are eligible to have up to 12 rapid antigen tests delivered via the mail for free. Sign up for free tests by clicking here. CVS and Walgreens also have easy-sign ups for getting tests shipped for free (CVS) or for in-store pick-up (Walgreens) for people who have insurance.

• Mask up using a high-quality mask (KN95s and N95s are now widely available—we suggest using a reputable vendor such as the non-profit N95 Project) when indoors or in crowded spaces.

PFund wishes everyone a happy and joyous holiday season.