Iowa Airport Traffic Increases as Holidays Near

The coronavirus pandemic has ruined a lot of things in 2020. From sports and school to family gatherings. With the recent spikes in COVID cases, travel is not recommended. Therefore many families won't be gathering for Turkey Day. Despite the recommendation, it seems that there are still some people on the move this holiday.

The Des Moines Register reports that 5,436 travelers went through the security checkpoint in Des Moines last Friday through Sunday. The U.S. Transportation Security Administration says that's a 15% increase from the previous weekend. Although, travel overall is down 45% from the same time last year.

Traveling or not, Thanksgiving looks a lot different this year. The Center for Disease Control recommends celebrating at home with those you live with. But, if you are gathering with family here are some suggested CDC guidelines:

• Gather outdoors
• Wear a mask when not eating
• Avoid potluck and have guests bring own food and drink
• Limit number of guests
• Practice good hygiene. Wash hands frequently
• Increase ventilation by opening windows
• Social distance

Find more CDC guidelines for this year here.

If you're not seeing family this year, there are other ways to celebrate. You can have a Zoom or Facetime meeting for example so you still get to see those familiar faces.