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Viewing this on a mobile device? Click here for the best viewing experience. The omicron variant of the coronavirus continues to spread across the world, making the holiday season harder to navigate than previously anticipated. As scientists race to understand more about the new variant, many are wondering what they should be doing in order to have a safe and happy holiday season with their family and loved ones after many couldn't do so last year. Health officials have said that if you're vaccinated, you can proceed with holiday gatherings while remaining cautious by wearing masks in public places and getting tested. But if you're hosting or attending a family gathering or party, you might be wondering what more you could be doing other than getting vaccinated. So we've gathered up a guide you can use in order to ensure you and your loved ones are as safe as possible this holiday season. Wear a maskDr. Anthony Fauci has said you do not need to don masks at holiday gatherings if you are fully vaccinated, but you should still be masking up in public settings and especially when you are traveling in a plane or train. Here are some mask options that you and your loved ones can use not only for traveling, but anytime you need to mask up in a public place:Take a COVID-19 test before and after gatheringThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends people get tested before and after a gathering with loved ones during the holidays, regardless of one's vaccination status. "Testing can give you information about your risk of spreading COVID-19," according to the CDC's website. "Consider using a self-test before joining indoor gatherings with others who are not in your household." Here are some rapid tests you can use before indoor gatherings: Here is additional guidance from the CDC:A positive self-test result means that you have an infection and should avoid indoor gatherings to reduce the risk of spreading the disease to someone else.A negative self-test result means that you may not have an infection. Repeating the test with at least 24 hours between tests will increase the confidence that you are not infected.Ask your health care provider if you need help interpreting your test results.Make sure guests are sanitized and washing handsWashing your hands continues to be a mitigation practice in the fight against COVID-19 as touching your eyes, nose or mouth with hands that have the virus on them is the main way the disease spreads. Health officials recommend either using hand sanitizer or washing your hands frequently to avoid contaminating yourself and others. Here are some hand sanitizer and hand soap options to choose from:Clean up after you're done hosting If you are hosting a gathering this holiday season, do everything you can to disinfect your communal areas before and after your gathering. While COVID-19 is spread primarily through being in close contact with an infected person, it's still a good idea to make sure your home is tidy and clean. Here are some cleaning products you can use:Vaccination is keyUltimately, the science proves that getting vaccinated and, if eligible, getting a booster shot will best protect you from COVID-19. Health officials continue to urge those who are unvaccinated to get the vaccine, and for those eligible for a third dose or booster shot, to get them in order to protect themselves and their loved ones. If you are seeking a COVID-19 shot, see what are the requirements in your state, or click on one of these links to set up an appointment:WalmartCVS WalgreensRite AidKrogerPublix