This holiday season, we shouldn’t forget that some of our most vulnerable family members remain at risk from COVID-19, says Iowa State University food safety specialist Angela Shaw.

Instead of large gatherings, Shaw recommends that you consider hosting smaller celebrations with close family and friends.

Shaw says her family members are also planning to get tested for COVID a few days before they gather for the holidays.

Test Iowa offers at-home COVID testing that you can mail in to get results back within two to three days, Shaw notes.

Most importantly, if you aren’t feeling well or have any COVID symptoms, like a cough, stomachache or fever, be sure to stay home.

“We all want to be together, but we don’t know what that cold (or illness) is, unless you’ve been tested,” Shaw says.

For more advice on how to host safe holiday gatherings, visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control website.

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