Creating a Holiday COVID Protection Plan for your family of four with school-age kids is a responsible and thoughtful approach to keeping everyone safe during the holiday season. Below is a plan that includes essential supplies and their estimated prices from Walmart.com for the month of December.
Holiday COVID Protection Plan
1. Face Masks and Hand Sanitizers:
- Purchase a pack of disposable face masks (e.g., Great Value 50-Pack Disposable Face Masks: $12.88) to ensure everyone has an adequate supply.
- Stock up on hand sanitizers (e.g., Equate Hand Sanitizer, 32 oz: $3.92) for convenient use, especially when you’re out and about.
2. Cleaning and Disinfecting Supplies:
- Disinfect commonly touched surfaces regularly with disinfectant wipes (e.g., Lysol Disinfecting Wipes, 80-Count: $4.98).
- Invest in a reliable multi-surface disinfectant spray (e.g., Clorox Disinfecting Spray, 19 oz: $5.88).
- Make sure you have an ample supply of disposable gloves (e.g., Great Value Disposable Vinyl Gloves, 100-Pack: $3.97) for cleaning and handling items outside the home.
3. Vitamins and Supplements:
- Boost your family’s immune systems with vitamins and supplements:
- Vitamin C supplements (e.g., Nature’s Bounty Vitamin C, 1000 mg, 100 Tablets: $6.88).
- Vitamin D supplements (e.g., Spring Valley Vitamin D3, 2000 IU, 400 Softgels: $7.88).
- Zinc supplements (e.g., Spring Valley Zinc Caplets, 50 mg, 200 Count: $4.98).
4. Face Shields (Optional):
- Consider face shields for added protection, especially for kids who may have difficulty wearing masks for extended periods (e.g., Face Shield for Kids, Pack of 5: $9.99).
5. Food and Groceries:
- Opt for online grocery shopping or curbside pickup to minimize exposure.
- Consider stocking up on non-perishable items, including canned goods, pasta, and frozen foods to reduce the need for frequent grocery store trips.
6. Telehealth Services:
- Familiarize yourself with telehealth services offered by your healthcare provider for virtual medical consultations in case anyone falls ill.
7. Social Distancing and Outdoor Activities:
- Plan outdoor, socially-distanced activities such as sledding, winter hikes, or building snowmen to reduce indoor gatherings.
8. Plan Virtual Gatherings:
- Host virtual holiday gatherings with family and friends to maintain social connections while staying safe.
9. Monitoring Symptoms:
- Keep a thermometer (e.g., Equate Temple Touch 6-Second Digital Thermometer: $12.88) on hand to monitor temperatures if anyone in the family feels unwell.
10. Stay Informed: – Stay updated on local COVID-19 guidelines and regulations, and be prepared to adjust your plans accordingly.
Remember that the prices mentioned are approximate and may vary. Ensure you have a well-stocked and organized supply of these items to keep your family safe during the holiday season. Following these precautions will help protect against COVID-19 and the flu while ensuring a safe and enjoyable holiday for your family.