AS MUCH as possible, the Department of Health (DOH) said Chinese New Year celebrations on Friday, February 12, 2021, should be held virtually to prevent transmission of the virus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

Face-to-face celebrations should be limited to household members, the DOH said in a advisory Thursday, February 11, 2021.

To those who must go out, the agency reiterated the need to observe the minimum public health standards.

“Don’t let your family gatherings become super spreader events. The DOH reiterates its call for the public to follow minimum public health standards to prevent Covid-19 transmission,” the agency said.

Here are DOH’s reminders:

• As much as possible, hold online reunions and limit face-to-face celebrations to household members only.
• When going out, always wear face masks and face shields properly,
• Always wash or sanitize your hands and keep high-touch surfaces clean.
• Avoid crowded spaces and maintain at least one-meter physical distance from other people.
• Ensure that there is proper ventilation in the place of gathering.