Tips to safely celebrate festival of rakhi 

By Dr H K Kharbanda (D.H.M.S.) 
August 3, 2020 marks Raksha Bandhan Festival. It is a day to celebrate the bond between brothers and sisters. This year, more families will need to do this virtually or use the post to get gifts to their loved ones.
Staying alert during this festival will help to protect family, friends and communities from COVID-19.  It is important that people continue to follow local government guidelines during this time, while still celebrating what is important to them.
People should:        
•    Only socialise well ventilated verandah or room inside house with members of up to two households, or ideally meet virtually
•    Continue to follow strict social distancing guidelines when they are with anyone not in their household
•    Practise frequent hand washing, for 20 seconds before and after tying Rakhi
•    Wherever possible, not pass each other food or drink unless they live together or are in a support bubble together. All plates and utensils should be thoroughly cleaned before use.
Those gifting a rakhi should:
•    Ask a household member to tie the rakhi on their behalf
•    Not pass sweets or food to each other unless living together or are in a support bubble
Families unable to celebrate together at this time can meet virtually if anyone of brother and sister have any symptoms