CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Halloween is usually a time to trick-or-treat, or have a party with friends and family. But due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year's celebrations could look a little different.
While a ban on trick-or-treating in Los Angeles was issued and then overturned Wednesday, that county's public health officials are now strongly recommending people avoid the tradition.
Some people such as Corpus Christi resident Michael Gonzalez thinks the holiday shouldn't happen this year because of the novel coronavirus.
“It’s too much of a risk, really; all the kids going together or going to other peoples houses,” he said.
Nueces County-Corpus Christi Public Health Director Annette Rodriguez said there still are ways to celebrate while staying safe.
“If you can do anything and prevent yourself from doing that, make it a different kind of Halloween for you and your family," she said. "If you need to put on a costume and celebrate with your family, take pictures.”
Rodriguez said that aside from the pandemic, folks also need to prepare for flu season.
“Start getting your flu vaccine, so that way, you have the protection before October 1st," she said. "Flu season goes all the way until may of next year.”
Angelica Alvarez, who works at Spirit Halloween, said they've seen an uptick in sales this year and think the pandemic is the main reason why.
“This year people want to celebrate Halloween, but at the same time, they don’t want to go out because of the whole virus situation," she said. "I'm guessing they still want to be festive and decorate the house and stuff like that.”
Rodriguez continues to remind people to be patient, and to remember getting back to normal may take a while, but it will happen.
“We’re going to get a COVID vaccine, we’re going to get to the other side of this, but this year we are not there," she said. "So this year do not do that. If you can do anything, make it a different kind of Halloween for you and your family."
For those who plan to celebrate this Halloween, Rodriguez recommends avoiding large crowds, decorating at home, and focusing on spending time with immediate family.