Modern Mississauga and the City of Mississauga have come together to present an ongoing series called “Ask the City.” We’ll share relevant information here and answer your questions about our city.
Today’s question is about how to manage physical distancing during the holidays.

Given the current COVID-19 pandemic, is it okay for me to visit my family during upcoming spring holidays if visits are limited to five or fewer healthy people?

Peel Public Health is urging residents to stay home for spring holidays and not host, or visit, family or friends.

The COVID-19 pandemic is a significant health crisis.
While symptoms are mild in about 80 per cent of those infected, they can be severe, or even fatal, in others. Even if you and your family believe yourself to be healthy, there is a risk that someone could be carrying the virus unknowingly and that you or your family could be exposed to the virus on your trip to visit others.

The best way to protect ourselves and our loved ones from COVID-19 is to keep physically apart. Because of this, holidays this spring will be different.

This year, the best way you can show your love for others is to protect them by staying away.
While we can’t get together physically, we can still connect socially.
Instead of celebrating in-person for holidays, consider these options:

· Host a video conference party (e.g. Zoom, Skype)

· Take turns hosting a Facebook/social media “live” so everyone gets a chance to see each other

· Have food delivered to your “guests” from your favourite restaurant

· Schedule one-on-one calls with all of your loved ones on special days

· Send your loved ones a gift basket or delivery of essential items

· Send a letter or holiday card

This season spread the love – NOT the virus.

Do your part; stay apart.
Learn more about COVID-19 in Peel at peelregion.ca/coronavirus

If you’ve got a question about the City, we want to hear from you! Please send your questions to info@modernmississauga.com with “Ask the City” in the subject line.