OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — We are moving into the ninth month of this pandemic and many are feeling COVID fatigue.
With Halloween and other holidays just around the corner, children have expectations of trick-or-treating or even sitting on Santa's lap. One Omaha pediatrician has some tips on how parents can still do these activities while staying safe.
Dr. Melissa St. Germain says, although rare, the number of children diagnosed with Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (MISC) has gone up since the summer.
"They get infected, they start getting better and it's about ten days after they're infected that they start to have those MISC symptoms," Dr. St. Germain said.
She adds, keeping kids and ourselves safe is exhausting and can be discouraging with no end in sight.
Dr. St. Germain hopes parents to keep up with their safety measures moving into the holiday season.,
"Masks are the new fashion accessory," Dr. St. Germain said. "If you are going to be in close contact with others, pick out one that matches your outfit and wear it with pride."
She says social distancing, wearing a mask and hand washing are still the best options.
Children's Hospital and Medical Center has an online information hub for all things COVID-19 related to children. You can access the resource center at ChildrensOmaha.org/COVID.
For Halloween, the Omaha Police Department is partnering with local agencies, bringing a COVID-friendly trick-or-treating experience this coming weekend.
Families can head to the Harrison Street entrance of Seymour Smith Park on Sunday, October 25th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The address is 6801 Harrison Street.
Those thinking ahead to Christmas and their annual visit with Santa may want to try HireSanta.com.
Dr. St. Germain adds the holidays may look different, but there are ways to still be safe while making memories.