Blog: Neuroinclusive Gatherings are Safe Gatherings

Categorized in: Neuroinclusive Healthcare Blog Posted on: Last updated on: Written by:

Mel Houser, M.D., Executive Director, All Brains Belong VT (11/25/2024)

Staying safe this winter

As the holiday season approaches, gatherings often play a central role in how many of us connect with others, whether personally or professionally. . However, the fall and winter months often bring a surge in respiratory viruses like COVID, Influenza, and RSV. For many people, these illnesses might be minor inconveniences. But for others—particularly neurodivergent individuals or those with hypermobility who often experience interconnected chronic health conditions—these viruses can trigger significant health setbacks.

Even if you’re not personally concerned about these illnesses, understanding how to reduce their spread benefits everyone. Healthy teams are productive teams, and minimizing disruptions caused by illness helps maintain momentum in workplaces and communities alike.

person sneezing and coughing into a tissue covering their nose and mouth, sick in bed

Understanding How Respiratory Viruses Spread

  • COVID spreads through airborne particles, lingering in the air for hours after an infected person has left.
  • Influenza and RSV primarily spread through droplets, which can land on surfaces or be inhaled directly.

Many people are contagious before showing symptoms, making it important to use preventive measures, especially in shared spaces.

7 Tips for Safer Gatherings

Whether you’re hosting a professional event or attending a family dinner, here are simple, practical ways to reduce the risk of illness:

  1. Choose outdoor settings when possible, especially during meals.
  2. Wear quality masks (KN95 or N95), especially indoors.
  3. Improve ventilation in indoor spaces by opening windows and doors
  4. Run air purifiers
  5. Stay up to date on vaccinations for COVID, Influenza, and RSV for those eligible
  6. Wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face.
  7. Keep gatherings small to minimize exposure.

While these steps might seem small, they collectively create a safer environment for everyone, ensuring that your gatherings—personal or professional—are memorable for the right reasons.

Staying mindful of health doesn’t have to be overwhelming. These are practical steps anyone can implement to keep themselves and their community thriving this winter.

Click here to access All Brains Belong’s additional Education resources.