Christmas returns tomorrow and with it comes larger gatherings of families and friends.

Community Health Educator Natalie Del Vecchio, with the Dallas County Health Department,  says there are ways for residents to be safe while spending time with loved ones.

She stresses the importance of staying home if you’re sick.

“Wash your hands often, cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, and be sure to teach that habit to little ones too. And then be especially mindful of older adults or those with weakened immune systems and just be extra cautious around them.”

Del Vecchio adds that it’s recommended that everyone six months and older get a flu shot before gathering with others. She details that it takes around two weeks for your body to build antibodies after the flu vaccine.