Trick-or-treating returns to Alexandria, Health Department still advises caution

Halloween is fast approaching and the time-honored tradition of trick-or-treating will be back in full swing.

Last year, the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) had discouraged the practice for fear of spreading the coronavirus throughout the community. Many holiday traditions in Alexandria, such as the Del Ray Halloween Parade and the Lee Street Halloween Event, were canceled in favor of much smaller, more somber festivities.

While transmission is still at an elevated risk in the city, this year the department is encouraging that some precautions should be taken to ensure a safer Halloween. This way the little goblins and ghouls can run amok to get their tasty treats. 

“Any activity with people from different households carries some risk,” said AHD Population Health Manager Natalie Talis, “but you can take common-sense measures to make your Halloween activities safer.”

Below are the recommended measures that the AHD are asking trick or treaters to take in order to have a safe time:

• Anyone age 12 and older should get vaccinated. Book an appointment at alexandriava.gov/Vaccines
• Wear a cloth or surgical mask when handing out candy or trick or treating
• Consider pre-bagging candy so kids don’t have to dip into a bowl
• Wash hands before eating candy or other treats
• Choose outdoor parties rather than indoor gatherings
• Avoid crowded settings and gatherings where you can’t maintain distance from others
• Stay home and away from others if you’re not feeling well, even if you are fully vaccinated

For more information go to CDC.gov 

Happy Halloween!