Ringing in 2021 safely: CDC issues New Yearâs Eve COVID-19 guidance COVID-19 graphic (Source: WIS) By Christian Piekos | December 31, 2020 at 5:26 AM CST - Updated December 31 at 6:04 PM (KSLA) - The start of 2021 is just hours away, but as COVID-19 cases continue to rise at worrisome rates following the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays â medical leaders are urging safety as the new year arrives. On Wednesday, Dec. 30, Louisiana added 6,754 new cases of the coronavirus, the largest single-day increase in the state. Ring in the new year safely The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued New Yearâs Eve guidance ahead of celebrations to encourage revelers to enjoy the evening responsibly. Here are the agencyâs tips: