A Christmas tradition is being scrapped in Northern Marianas due to Covid-19 concerns.
Photo: 123RF
The Governor's Covid-19 Taskforce said it was discouraging Christmas carolling this year out of an abundance of caution to stop the potential spread of the coronavirus.
The statement comes despite the CNMI having had no local transmission since early August.
The taskforce chair, Warren Villagomez, said carolling must be prevented at this time because social distancing and the wearing of face masks are not possible during the activity.
He added that carolling is a difficult pursuit to take part in while complying with rules around signing up for contact tracing purposes or having one's temperature taken when entering offices.
Health experts also say singing is one of the fastest ways to spread Covid-19.
Villagomez warned the Office of the Governor would soon announce sanctions and penalties against carolling.
Earlier the Catholic church cancelled the tradition of bringing the statue of the Child Christ-locally known as Niño-into homes during the holidays due to the pandemic.