Experts weigh in on how to have a COVID-safe Halloween amid coronavirus pandemic
Parents are being urged turn Halloween into a virtual event this year as the threat of COVID-19 still looms.
Geelong
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Parents are being urged turn Halloween into a virtual event this year as the threat of COVID-19 still looms.
Deakin University epidemiologist Catherine Bennett said it was possible mystery COVID-19 cases were still lurking in the community.
“The risk is low (going out for Halloween) but at the same time we don’t know what is going to happen in the next couple of weeks, and there might be the odd cases around the place that we don’t know about,” Professor Bennett said.
“I think it’s just better to be safe. There may be ways people can leave things for kids at street level (rather than at their front doors).”
The G21 region is currently COVID-19 free but Greater Geelong has recorded 366 cases since the start of the pandemic.
Prof Bennett said overall public health would benefit from people not coming into close contact with each other during trick-or-treating.
“It might look a little different this year. Maybe handing out treats isn’t a good thing.”
Prof Bennett said people could toot horns in a jovial way when they saw children dressed up rather than having close contact with people.
“I just think there are ways you could do it that are less about close contact, knocking on people’s doors or having big parties.”
Canadian born Maz Clark known for elaborate Halloween decorations at her Jan Juc house said she would give the festivities a miss this year.
“I get 350 kids on my property each Halloween and I just don’t feel it is safe at this juncture we are at,” Ms Clark said.
“It’s probably not the smartest thing to do at this point in time. With COVID I just don’t think it’s safe.
“I just feel really sad and disappointed for the kids in the community. Halloween is all about getting out with friends and having fun. Just kids being kids. Hopefully in 2021 we can make it bigger and better.”
Barwon Health was asked its view on Halloween going ahead but did not respond to questions.
A spokesman said: “all celebrations should be done in accordance with the CHO guidelines.”
The Department of Health and Human Services did not respond to the Geelong Advertiser’s questions about the health advice regarding Halloween.
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Originally published as Experts weigh in on how to have a COVID-safe Halloween amid coronavirus pandemic