
CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The spooky season is upon us, and this year is extra spooky because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Illinois Department of Public Health issued guidance Wednesday to help people celebrate Halloween safely amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
The guidelines including following the three "w's": wash your hands, watch your distance, and wear your mask.
“One of the hallmarks of holidays and celebrations is gathering with friends, family, and loved ones,” said IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike, in statement. “We are still in a pandemic, and unfortunately, this year, that means the safest way to celebrate is to stay home and plan virtual gatherings. That said, IDPH recognizes that some who will choose to gather together anyway, and instead of denying that reality, we are issuing guidance and recommendations for safer ways to celebrate together in person. Remember, we know what our best tools are: wearing our masks, keeping our distance, limiting event sizes, washing your hands, and looking out for public health and each other.”
If you think you could have COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone who has COVID-19, IDPH said do not participate in any in-person Halloween activities.
Trick-or-treating
IDPH said anyone participating in trick-or-treating, including those passing out candy, should maintain six-feet of social distance and wear proper face coverings.
Officials said residents should consider leaving individually wrapped candy (spaced apart) on a table in driveways or in front of walkways, sidewalks, or any outdoor space where 6-feet of distance can be maintained.
IDPH warns that Halloween costume masks are not a substitute for a cloth mask; and therefore, people should ensure that breathing is not impaired if a cloth mask is worn under a costume mask.
It is recommended to trick-or-treat in groups with household members only and that candy collected during trick-or-treating should only be eaten after washing your hands.
An alternative to traditional trick-or-treating is to set up in a large parking lot or other outdoor setting with tables with individually wrapped candy (spaced apart) where participants with a parent/guardian can parade past while still keeping 6-feet of distance and wearing a face covering. It’s suggested to offer reserved time slots to limit everyone showing up at once.
Haunted Houses
Halloween haunted houses currently are not allowed in Restore Illinois Phase 4 Guidelines. IDPH said people should consider open-air, one-way haunted forests or haunted walks where 6-feet of distance can be maintained and face coverings are used.
Adult costume parties, social gatherings, Halloween parties at bars
Gatherings of more than 50 people or 50 percent or more of a building’s maximum occupancy are prohibited.
The more time you spend at a gathering, the closer the contact, the more people, the higher your risk of exposure to COVID-19, officials said.
Pumpkin patches and orchards
Cloth face coverings and social distancing should be enforced while at pumpkin patches and apple orchards. Officials recommend the use of hand sanitizer before handling pumpkins, apples, and other produce.
Hayrides
Hayrides should not exceed 50 percent capacity with parties spaced at least six feet apart. Riders should wear face coverings at all times when around people not from your household.
After participating in any of the above activities, if you think that you may have been exposed during your celebration, take extra precautions for 14 days after the event to help protect others. You should: stay home as much as possible, avoid being around people at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19, and consider getting tested for COVID-19.
IDPH Halloween guidance can be found on the IDPH website.