MICHIGAN - As Thanksgiving day approaches and with the increasing rise in COVID-19 and flu cases, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services will be issuing a face mask advisory in order to keep relatives and loved ones safe during the holiday season.

This year the American Auto Mobile Association suspects a 13% increase in traveling citizens during the Thanksgiving holidays with a 53% increase in air travel from the previous year and an 8% increase via automobiles despite gas costing over a dollar more per gallon than this time last year.

"Now that the borders are open and new health and safety guidelines are in place, travel is once again high on the list for Americans who are ready to reunite with their loved ones for the holidays," said Paula Twidale, senior vice president, AAA Travel.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also issued recommendations for safe gathering by protecting those not yet eligible for vaccination, such as young children through vaccination, social distancing, and wearing masks. In addition, it is advised for residents to get the flu shot, which can be administered simultaneously as the COVID Vaccine.

"Safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines are available to children ages five and up, and boosters are available for eligible Michiganders. The holidays can be a time to spread great cheer, and we recommend taking measures including wearing a mask indoors to not spread COVID-19 to loved ones," advised Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive.

Travelers are advised to be masked in public at all times, especially in crowded open areas or indoor places where the people's vaccination status is unknown, such as airports and train stations.

It is recommended that travelers be fully vaccinated or delay travel until fully vaccinated. A person is considered fully vaccinated two weeks after the completion of their primary vaccination series

People with medical conditions or taking medication that weakens their immune system are recommended to take any additional dosage/booster shots and follow precautions for unvaccinated people until advised otherwise by a medical provider.

Visit Michigan.gov/coronavirus and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at cdc.gov/coronavirus For more information about Holiday Safety Tips, travel maps, and Mask Policies.