How to Keep Safe From Omicron During the Chinese New Year

The Department of Health on Wednesday reminded the public to observe health protocols for the upcoming Chinese New Year to curb the spread of COVID-19 as the country recovers from a holiday surge driven by the omicron variant.

Chinese New Year festivities will be limited for the second year in a row to accommodate minimum public health standards.

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Here are the DOH's recommendations for a safe Chinese New Year celebration:

• Eating tikoy at home
• Online reunion via video call
• Giving electronic angpao or money envelopes
• Having food delivered to relatives
• Watching fireworks from home
• Watching Chinese dramas or movies at home

The following are considered high-risk activities:

• Physically going to Chinatown
• Partaking in in-person gatherings with friends and family
• Watching lion dances in crowded locations
• Visiting elders

Buying fruits and other food before Chinese New Year and visiting temples even during low-traffic hours pose a risk for infection, the DOH said.