Hugging Safely During COVID

Hugging during COVID

Now that infection and hospitalization rates are decreasing in MA (thank you healthcare workers!),

it is time to figure out how to return to normal day to day life, including hugging! As human beings, we all need hugs! It is a part of human nature, we need physical touch! 

When considering how to hug safely, it is all about risk reduction. 

For instance, please do not go out and hug every single person in the grocery store. That is not smart if you are trying to reduce risk of spreading infection, and even in normal circumstances that could make people feel quite uncomfortable. 

How do you do it safely?

First, make sure to hug those who you can trust that they have been practicing safety guidelines. This includes wearing a mask in crowded public places, frequent hand washing, and not travelling internationally.

Hugging safely: Stay outside, wear a mask, and keep it quick – no lingering embrace. 

Face away from each other – no face to face or cheek to cheek, rather hug with each person facing a different direction. 

Grandparents are being reintroduced back into people’s social bubbles, now that infection rates have decreased. When children and grandparents are hugging, do not have the grandparents crouch to hug their grandchildren, rather have the child hug them at waist level. If the grandparents want to kiss the grandchildren, give them a kiss on the back of their head. 

For social gatherings, it is best to do it outside, such as in a backyard, and at least 6 feet apart. Masks are up for discretion, depending on the health and comfort level of everyone.