Halloween candy has always been a concern for germs of any kind, not just SARS-CoV-2 (the coronavirus that causes COVID-19). But, it’s important to remember that this virus can be in the air for periods of time after an infected person has been present. I am more concerned about COVID-19 exposure during trick-or-treating than transmission of the virus strictly from the wrappers.
The reality is, if the wrapper is contaminated with SARS-CoV-2, you came in close contact with someone who has it. That close contact with an infected person is the highest risk, not the candy wrapper itself.
COVID-19 can spread if kids are in close contact with candy passers or not using excellent hand hygiene after reaching into bowls. Here are some guidelines to make trick-or-treating safer.
While trick-or-treating
1. Wear masks that cover your nose and mouth. Costume masks don't count if air can expel out. Halloween is the PERFECT holiday for mask use
2. Only accept wrapped candy. Assume there could be unclean hands touching candy
3. Stay at least 6 feet away from other families trick-or-treating
How to open candy safely
4. Wash hands or use hand sanitizer, then open the candy wrappers. Avoid touching the candy itself by opening it onto a plate
5. Wash hands with soap and water after opening the candy and before eating it. (Hand sanitizer can leave an unpleasant taste on hands, so washing will avoid that.)
Giving out candy
6. Wear masks that cover your nose and mouth while giving out candy
7. Don't let children reach into the bowl. Use a scoop to pass it out to allow hands-free candy
8. Consider making something creative, like a candy slide or grab-and-go bags. This will keep kids 6 feet away from others so they can get candy without contact
There are lots of other ideas to celebrate Halloween safely, too. You might celebrate with a fun movie night, carving pumpkins or decorating cupcakes.
The best protection against COVID-19 is vaccination. If your kids are 12 or older, get them vaccinated. Also, watch for updates on an anticipated vaccine authorization for children ages 5 through 11.
