- Experts say even with COVID-19 vaccines being distributed, it’s still too early to start having small gatherings again.
- They note it remains important to wear masks and continue to practice physical distancing, even after getting vaccinated.
- It’s still unknown how effective the COVID-19 vaccines are against the new variants of the virus, experts say.
Like millions of other people in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic, Chris LaGesse is laying low.
LaGesse, a retired teacher from Lake Zurich, Illinois, is aware that COVID-19 vaccines are now being distributed and that more are on the way.
She also knows that some states, counties, and cities are allowing people to return to outdoor dining and are ending the mandatory stay-at-home orders.
But she still doesn’t feel safe.
“I may feel a bit more comfortable going shopping and doing outdoor activities, but I will still be wearing a mask and social distancing,” she told Healthline.
Even after she and her family members get vaccinated, LaGesse said little will change for her family until a majority of the population is inoculated.
“The more virulent strains of the virus that are being discovered will likely change the scenario, too,” said LaGesse, who’ll be taking “special precautions when we do get together with my family.”
Daniel Scarpino, a Gulf War veteran who’s currently battling cancer, said he’ll be vigilant during his treatments.
But he still plans to live his life.
“I will err on the side of caution from here on out,” said Scarpino, who worked in his family’s restaurant and salad dressing business and served in Operation Desert Shield as well as Operation Desert Storm.
“I will not stop what I want to do as far as going to Utah to see the grandchildren and going sightseeing in our national and state parks. I will not go into hiding,” he told Healthline.
“But I will keep my mask with me and sanitizer. I will take all precautions that I feel are necessary to keep myself, family, and others safe,” he added.
Source: healthline