CDC says fully vaccinated people can stop wearing masks indoors and outdoors, and ignore social distancing rules. These five tips will help you stay safe as many around the world return to normalcy.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Dr Rochelle Walensky announced during a White House COVID-19 briefing on Thursday, 13 May 2021. She said that this decision was reached after considering scientific data verifying the performance of vaccines and their understanding of how the virus spreads.
“We have all longed for this moment when we can get back to some sense of normalcy … that moment has come for those who are fully vaccinated,” part of Walensky’s statement read. Of course, some places may still require people to wear masks. CDC says you should obey such exceptional guidance.
UPDATE: If you are fully vaccinated against #COVID19, you can resume activities without wearing a mask or staying 6 feet apart, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal or territorial laws, incl. local business and workplace guidance. More: https://t.co/FJMon7WlFO
— CDC (@CDCgov) May 13, 2021
Despite this good news, you should also consider the following tips to remain safe.
- The CDC Director advised immunocompromised people (weakened immune system) to keep their masks on to protect themselves. If you fall in this category, you should speak to your doctor, even if you are fully vaccinated, before getting rid of the mask and ignoring physical social distancing mandates.
- Even fully vaccinated people with better immune systems should continue to wear their mask, especially in high infectious areas. Why? Dr Rochelle Walensky explains that the unpredictable nature of the virus may make them change some recommendations if things get worse. So, to stay safe, you can keep your mask on until further notice.
- If a fully vaccinated person develops symptoms of COVID-19, the CDC recommends that they “go back to wearing masks and get tested right away”. This is vital information as it will protect your loved ones.
- Get vaccinated. The CDC conceded that the announcement may serve as an incentive for some people to get vaccinated even if that is not the purpose. So, go get your shots and stay healthy.
- COVID-19 is not the only infectious disease despite it enjoying all the publicity at this time. So, even if you are fully vaccinated against COVID, some other disease might be lurking around the corner to jump you.
- Keep washing your hands
- Avoid crowded spaces
- Don’t touch publicly accessible spots with bare hands
- Sanitise
- Exercise regularly
- And visit the doctor for routine check-ups
You may also like to read our recent article Want to live long? Oldest living American, feisty Alelia Murphy’s lifestyle might be the answer.
Not taking chances
Okay