The holiday season instinctively means celebratory plans but with a new COVID-19 variant looming large, we want you to be doubly safe. Professional party planners and doctors discuss precautionary measures for low-risk revelries
Hosting an intimate gathering in the confines of your home or garden allows you to stay safe
The last two years — and the beginning and end of 2022 — have tainted us with a unique fibre of smelling suspicion. Any cause for community merrymaking seems to be accompanied by an imminent danger. Can we go back to having fun like we did before the pandemic? Can we ever prepare for luncheons and dinner parties without having to pack masks and sanitisers, too? We understand the panic and frustration that Omicron sub-variant BF.7 has spurred amongst the people. And we don’t want them to hit pause on their plans. But what can we do to sew up a favourable setting for tame festivities?
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“Follow basic safety measures and not worry about the rest,” says party organiser Meghna Chitalia, who feels that wearing masks, washing hands and keeping one’s hands off their face, alongside social distancing are the only parameters one can currently follow.
Meghna Chitalia
Event manager Delnaz A Billimoria agrees. “I don’t think the news will discourage people from pursuing any celebratory occasion. But if they are stepping out, I suggest they attend outdoorsy activities while staying masked.” Here are a few simple yet effective guidelines based on their professional suggestions.
Come on in
Are you the kind of reveller who is anxious about attending events during an outbreak, but also fears missing out on the fun? Perhaps soirées or house parties would suit your personality well. Find a long list of guidelines to ensure a secure and wholesome experience at home:
>> When you invite people, factor in the size of your home — especially the living area or wherever you plan to host your guests. It shouldn’t get overly packed. Decide on the total number of invitees keeping in mind that there should be enough space for people to sit away from each other even when in the
same room.
>> It’s advisable to be transparent about your guest list. Everyone invited should be aware of other invitees coming to the event. The idea is to host a group of like-minded people so you can focus on engaging conversations while keeping an eye on protective measures. If guests don’t gel with one another, it can lead to unnecessary friction.
Delnaz Billimoria
>> Ensure that the main room receives enough ventilation. Seat your invitees in an area that faces an open window, balcony or courtyard.
>> Masks and sanitisers are vital. Make sure guests mask up on the way to your home, and sanitise soon after reaching the location. While some friends get comfy after reaching the venue, some others can stay iffy. Respect their boundaries if they wish to keep their masks on or choose to wash their hands repeatedly. You can invite people who have been vaccinated.
>> Keep sufficient disposable cutlery at your disposal. Arrange for separate small plates and dip bowls so guests don’t need to share starters, sauces and condiments.
>> Check in with your friends a day or two before the party. Ask them about their health and the kind of food they want. While some might be fine by restaurant-made food, others might expect a homely meal. In case of the latter, opt for a potluck to avoid stress. This ensures reliability.
Ahoy, travelling partiers!
>> When on a trip, follow good hand hygiene. Even if you feel lazy to do this, it is of much importance when you’re travelling. Make sure you wash your hands during and after your commute.
>> If you know you will be on a long flight, carry multiple masks to avoid smelly breath. This is a tip for both comfort and safety. Wear your mask on the flight at all times. Avoid eating when flying.
>> Check for news updates before visiting a place. You should be aware of reported cases in the area.
>> If your bookings have been finalised, call up your hotel to check if they have safety measures in place to prevent the spread of the virus.
Be my guest
>> Always remember that whoever is throwing a party, is trying to ensure a safe and happy time. Your actions should align with their efforts. Get an idea of their house rules and follow the same throughout the event.
>> Monitor your symptoms. Be aware of the signs your body is showing. If you have a cough, a runny nose or are running a temperature, it’s best to stay at home. The new variant spreads more vigorously and hence, quarantining should be your first priority.
>> When at a friend’s place, try to not smoke inside a room. Step out if needed. Instead of using surgical masks, use N-95. Keep sanitising your hands from time to time.
>> Remember to not share drinks or food, especially during a light-hearted moment. Be cautious of not invading another guest’s safe space while being friendly.
Always watch your step
>> Based on the information we have at our disposal with regard to the new COVID-19 sub-variant, India has nothing to worry about as yet. But taking safety precautions can go a long way. Never take your health for granted. Also, it’s that time of the year when other viruses are at play. Staying safe can protect you against a variety of lung infections, too.
Dr Sanjeev Mehta
>> I feel that house parties are a better way of ringing in festivities. With intimate gatherings, you have control over the guest list. You will be meeting friends and not strangers, so you have a fair idea about their health or recent travels. If you have a cough, excuse yourself from a gathering. In such a case, be responsible and focus on recovery. As an informed individual, it’s also unwise of you to put others at risk.
>> A possible disadvantage during home parties is the case of smokers smoking indoors. In such scenarios, demarcate an outdoor smoking area.
>> For those heading to destination parties, ensure it has an open air arrangement. Mask up, use sanitisers and try to stay in the open as much as possible. People should not panic but shouldn’t let their guard down either. India has had potent vaccines in the past, and this variant is not unheard of. Research says that its strains have been found in 91 other countries. We have to tackle the situation intelligently.
Dr Sanjeev Mehta, specialist in chest, allergy and sleep medicine
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