Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you're getting ready to enjoy time with family, neighbors, and friends after too many holidays spent apart. My family and I are all vaccinated, and we can't wait to celebrate together safely.
While I know we're all excited to gather for Thanksgiving and the holidays, the threat of COVID-19 is still very real. We're headed into a time when more people are traveling and gathering indoors, and that means the chance of spreading COVID-19 is higher. Unfortunately, we're already seeing cases rises across the state, and we're working closely with local officials to bring cases down and to bring vaccinations up.
New Yorkers, be smart — we have the tools to protect ourselves and our loved ones from COVID. We know the best way to beat this virus is to get vaccinated. If you're already vaccinated and boosted, I want you to think about the person in your life who isn't vaccinated yet. Reach out to them and share why you chose to get vaccinated, and encourage them to do the same.
Luckily, our younger kids can now get vaccinated, too. Parents —Thanksgiving break is the perfect time to get your young children vaccinated. Talk to your pediatrician, learn more at ny.gov/VaxForKids, and make an appointment for your child as soon as you can. The vaccines are safe, free, and recommended by doctors and health experts, and it's OK to have questions.
It's so important to keep our loved ones safe, especially during the holidays. If you are feeling sick, stay home. Testing is widely available across New York State and is free. Find a testing site near you.
Some other tips to help you and your loved ones have a safe holiday:
- Limit your gatherings to only vaccinated family and loved ones
- If the weather permits and it's not too cold, open the windows and door for more ventilation
- Wear a mask when you're in public indoor places
There is good news, too! Over 90% of adult New Yorkers have gotten at least their first vaccine dose. Remember: If you've gotten your first dose of Pfizer or Moderna, don't forget to get your second dose. And if you're fully vaccinated, be sure to get your booster as soon as you're eligible. There are over 4,500 locations across the state offering boosters, so don't put it off. If you've been looking for the right time to do it, now is that time.
I'm thankful for all of your hard work in getting vaccinated, bringing New York back, and looking out for another throughout this time. Let's prevent a spike in our COVID numbers this winter by celebrating this holiday season safely.
Wishing you and your loved ones a happy and safe Thanksgiving!
Governor Kathy Hochul
No comments:
Post a Comment