What to do about Thanksgiving in the age of coronavirus?
That's the question on many minds out there in this great nation. Health authorities and some governors and mayors are urging Americans to forgo the annual holiday this year, perhaps substituting a virtual family gathering on Zoom or some other online meeting service.
It's too risky, they say, especially when one considers that generations of family, from old to young, gather in one place.
They also warn about travel. The days before and after Thanksgiving are the busiest travel times of the year. While many choose to take their own car, many do not. Airliners, trains and buses are all packed this time of year. You could fly in to see grandma and unknowingly pick up the virus, quite possibly infecting her as well.
We are sure some cautious citizens will follow the advice to limit family gatherings or do away with an in-person Thanksgiving feast entirely.
But we doubt most of our fellow countrymen will give up that most American of traditions. Some out of defiance, others thinking the risks are overblown.
Think hard about the choice you make for your family. COVID-19 cases are rising. Deaths are as well.
And consider what happened in Canada. Our neighbors to the north have their Thanksgiving in October. And after this year's celebration, new coronavirus cases exploded, according to the Louisville Courier Journal.
The bottom line? Be careful. Use good judgment. And if you decide to celebrate Thanksgiving with family this year, take what safety precautions you can - especially if elderly and vulnerable loved ones will be present.