Kristin Englund, MD, infectious disease specialist, weighs in on the most important things to consider as you prepare for or attend wedding as well as other gatherings this summer.
- Keep yourself protected
According to Dr. Englund, when planning to host or to attend an events like wedding, make sure you get yourself, and if possible the invited guests, vaccinated. It is highly recommended to hold an outdoor event. She also states, according to the updated guidelines released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding masking up in public settings, if you’ve been vaccinated, it is okay to ditch the mask. Be mindful to note local and state mandates, as those rules still apply. “In Ohio, the mask mandate has now been lifted for those who are vaccinated.”
- The use of electronic-only wedding communications.
It is a good idea to use a website or electronic invitation. You can alert your guest list with the click of a button regarding to COVID-19 evolving changes.
- State your expectation early and clearly.
Let people know ahead of time that they have to wear masks if they’re unvaccinated. Note on your invitation if you’re providing masks and if they're available at the entrance. This will avoid inconvenience on your special day as your guests arrive.
- Space, please!
Assess your space. Consider to rent extra tables and chairs to ensure all guests maintain a safe distance. Think of seating your most vulnerable members of family at their own table with six feet of spacing as recommended by the CDC. A fluid arrival time for your reception is also important to prevent your guests from congregating at the entrance.
In conclusion, whether you are the host or the guest, it is essential to get vaccinated and know the vaccination status of the people invited to the event. With kids ages 12 to 15 now eligible to get vaccinated, younger siblings can safely participate in the festivities too.