The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention wants families to celebrate Thanksgiving virtually if possible.
It is advising families to stay at home for the holidays and refrain from long travel if possible.
"Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others," the CDC says in new risk-based guidelines.
"Travel increases the chance of getting and spreading the virus that causes Covid-19. If you must travel, be informed of the risks involved."
It has listed activities deemed high-risk which people should avoid.
These include shopping in crowded malls, attending parades, and going to large indoor gatherings with people from outside of the household.
It also urges families to protect vulnerable, elderly family members.
Instead it recommends a small dinner with only people who live in the household, or having a virtual dinner.
It also advises skipping Black Friday bargain hunting and instead shopping online.
When hosting an outdoor gathering, everyone should maintain social distancing or wear a mask, and make sure anyone feeling sick stays at home.
The virus has killed more than 200,000 Americans and infected over seven million globally.
Written by Ray Montgomery, US Editor
