Kneeling before Santa Claus prohibited for American kids due to COVID-19 concerns.
Shopping centers across the US are making adjustments to Santa visits due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, according to "MIR 24", as reported by Almaty.tv. Instead of snuggling up on Santa's lap, kids will communicate through glass to keep things safe. Visitors are mandated to wear masks for photographs too. Some stores will install plastic barriers, while others will use faux gift boxes to maintain distance.
To minimize lines and potential infections, one-on-one appointments with Santa have become the norm. Staff will conduct regular disinfection and temperature checks. Actors will work shorter shifts, but take longer breaks to stay fresh and healthy.
While keeping the festive spirit alive, the tradition serves a commercial purpose. Last year, Santa's charm attracted around 10 million families, who then shopped in nearby stores and cafes.
On a different note, Latvia has decided to skip large-scale New Year's celebrations due to coronavirus concerns.
It's worth mentioning that although there's no specific report on how shopping centers in Almaty are adapting Santa visits during the pandemic, it's not far-fetched to assume they've followed common practices worldwide. These safety measures can include social distancing, remote visits, increased sanitization, mandatory mask-wearing, and capacity limits – all strategies aimed at ensuring the health and safety of kids and staff while maintaining the holiday cheer.
Science and health-and-wellness measures are being prioritized at shopping centers worldwide, including Almaty, as they adapt Santa visits to ensure safety during the ongoing pandemic. This includes social distancing, remote visits, increased sanitization, mandatory mask-wearing, and capacity limits – all strategies aimed at preserving the holiday spirit while prioritizing health and wellness.
