How can we minimize the risk of transmission of COVID-19 at a gathering such as a cookout?

If you're sick, stay home.

If you must attend a gathering and are unvaccinated, stay at least six feet away from other guests and wear a mask. If you can't stay six feet apart, always wear a mask, except when eating and drinking. If possible, hold the gathering outdoors.

Fully vaccinated people (2 weeks after their second dose in a 2-dose series [Pfizer or Moderna] or 2 weeks after a single dose vaccine [Johnson &Johnson]) can resume activities without wearing a mask or physically distancing, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance.

Rather than serving food buffet style where guests use a single utensil to put food on their plates, have someone wear a mask, wash their hands thoroughly and serve the food to each person.

Wash your hands frequently. Use hand sanitizer frequently when soap and water aren't available.