There are still aspects of the COVID-19 vaccine that still need to be determined but it still remains the best defense in our fight against COVID-19. Here’s what you need to know after you’re fully vaccinated.
If I am vaccinated can I gather with others without a mask?
Yes, being vaccinated has benefits. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now recommends that individuals who have been fully vaccinated, which is two weeks after the second dose, may gather indoors without a mask with others who are vaccinated.
So, last weekend for the first time in nearly a year, we went to dinner over at my uncle and aunt’s home in Germantown. We were vaccinated and they were vaccinated. We all felt safe.
Moreso, the CDC recommends that vaccinated people visiting with unvaccinated people from a single household who do not have individuals at risk for severe COVID-19 may also get together without masking and distancing.
These are recommendations for indoor gatherings. If you are visiting outdoors, it reduces the risk of transmission of infection significantly.
If I am vaccinated and then have contact with a COVID-19 positive patient what do I need to do?
COVID-19 vaccine is highly protected. So, CDC is recommending that for individuals who are fully vaccinated, it is not necessary to be in 10 or 14 day quarantine or to be tested after an exposure to a Covid-19 positive patient.
Does the vaccine prevent transmission of the virus?
Very likely, yes. Clinical studies are being done, yet most researchers agree that the Covid-19 vaccine will reduce transmission.
We know that the vaccine develops IgG antibodies and these penetrate the nasal mucosa and lung where the virus replicates. Also the vaccine leads to development of IgA antibodies which are found in the nasal mucosa.
Lastly, in animal model experiments the vaccine is shown to prevent transmission.
If our family is coming back from vacation during the spring break, how do I make sure to prevent infection?
Studies show that school children have the highest risk of infection after they come back to school from vacation. The reason for this is because during vacation they are exposed to many other persons in various places. Hence, it is best to be tested after you have been out on vacation.
If you can do two tests, do the first test when you return and the second seven days later. If you can get only one test then do one test five days after returning. Consider being tested even if you are not having any symptoms.
Most importantly, be sure if you are having any symptoms, even minor sinus congestion or fatigue, get tested.
Source: Commercial Appeal