Rossen Reports: Here’s what you can do after getting vaccinated
The vaccine rollout has been chaotic.
Millions of you have gotten a vaccine while so many more are still waiting for their turn. Now we’re entering a strange in-between period. We’re not sure what we’re allowed to do after we get the vaccine. Can we go back to normal life? What are the new rules we have to live by for a while?
We ask Dr. Amesh Adalja from the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security to weigh in on the things we can and can’t do.
Masks in public: Can we ditch the masks? Even if you’re vaccinated you’re going to have to wear a mask in public. Dr. Adalja believes we’ll be wearing masks into the summer of 2021. Researchers are trying to figure out if people who are vaccinated can still get the virus and pass it along to others. Some data shows the vaccine does, in fact, prevent that from happening but the research is ongoing.
Visiting grandparents: Seniors have been isolating for months and are ready to see their families. But kids under the age of 16 won’t get a vaccine. So can vaccinated grandparents see their grandkids? It’s very safe. Vaccinated seniors are less likely to get severe disease or symptoms from their grandkids. It’s certain the vaccine will prevent severe COVID-19 symptoms if you do get the virus.
Working in the office: We’ve been working from home for months. Can we go back into the office? Yes. Most workplaces will likely keep safety procedures such as social distancing, mask and hand washing policies that will keep you safe as well.
Eating inside a restaurant: Even with the limited capacity restrictions, eating indoors can be risky but once you’re vaccinated, it’s safer to do so. It’s important to remember that you’ll be safer but other people around you may not be vaccinated yet. You may still be able to asymptomatically transmits the virus, so it’s important to still follow safety guidance.
Travel: Deals for 2021 are enticing. Can you hop on a plane and take the family on a vacation? If you’re vaccinated, you’re good to travel. But again, you’ll still need to follow safety procedures that keep everyone around you safe if you are able to asymptomatically transmit the virus.
EXCLUSIVE BONUS: CAN YOU HAVE A PARTY?
Ready to have a group of people over inside your house? Is there a limit? Does everybody need to be vaccinated? Find out below.