This is part of a sponsored collaboration with the Houston Health Department. However, all opinions expressed are my own.
The numbers are staggering. Specifically in the Latino community. COVID-19 has devastated so many parts of our daily lives in the last several months, and now, as we prepare for what promises to be an even more difficult winter season in terms of the number of deaths and hospitalizations related to the global coronavirus pandemic, things are even more serious than ever before.
Contrary to what some may argue, however, the worst of this pandemic is not yet behind us. Most experts are saying the cold weather ahead will make it easier to catch and spread COVID-19.
But how soon that happens or not, is not my reason for this post. I definitely understand that with Thanksgiving and the Christmas holidays right around the corner, we all want to get together and spend time with our extended families. All of them! Coming from a big Mexican family I know how important that is, and I also know how quickly a little gathering can turn into 30, 40, plus people under one roof. The truth is, if we are being honest with ourselves, this year, big gatherings are just not a good idea.
That may not be a popular decision. To say, “hey, you know what, I think this year we are going to celebrate at home by ourselves instead of with a larger group or the rest of the family.” It might even get you into a few frustrating conversations. That’s okay. The point is, if we all do our part we can slow the spread of COVID-19 and hopefully save some lives as well.
Anjelica and I are working with the Houston Health Department this holiday season to encourage Latinx members of our community to get tested, wear masks, wash their hands, and social distance. It is all part of the health department’s #TodosJuntosMejor, which reminds Houston residents that they can get tested for free and without having to show proof of residency, citizenship, or health insurance. You can find all the city’s testing sites here – https://houstonemergency.org/covid-19-testing/ – and also call (832) 393-4220 to get more information.
Let’s all do what we can to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
