COVID-19 cases are on the decline worldwide and in the U.S., and the CDC recently recommended that fully vaccinated people may spend time with other fully vaccinated people without wearing a mask, and may refrain from quarantine under certain circumstances. Many of us are finally starting to feel like the end of the pandemic may be in sight – just in time for Spring Break! If you’re making Spring Break plans, then read on for my thoughts on how to keep it safe.
Keep in mind that the CDC recommendations are for fully vaccinated people only – that is, people who have received 2 doses of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, or 1 dose of a Janssen vaccine. They are not across-the-board recommendations for the entire country. If you are one of the 89% of Americans who are not yet fully vaccinated against COVID-19, then I’m sorry to tell you that these recommendations don’t apply to you.
Although we’re making good progress, the pandemic is far from over. About 50,000 new cases of COVID-19 are still being reported each day, and about 1,500 people die of COVID-19 each day in the U.S. The U.S. is making tremendous progress on COVID-19 vaccination, but many experts predict we will need about 70% of the U.S. vaccinated to achieve herd immunity, and we’re nowhere near that target. I have confidence that we’ll reach it eventually, but likely not in time for most Americans’ Spring Breaks.
So what should you do if you’re planning a Spring Break? Keep it low-key for another year. Have a staycation. Visit with vaccinated friends and family members. Go camping or visit a secluded area. Catch an outdoor performance, with your mask on and 6 feet away from other audience members. But please don’t head out to the bars, a crowded beach or host a big party. Dense, crowded areas are still very risky for COVID-19. Don’t risk your health and your loved ones’ health before we’ve crossed the finish line.