Vaccinations, including the COVID-19 shot, are designed to protect you and the people around you from getting sick. Scientists are still learning how the COVID-19 vaccine impacts the spread of the novel coronavirus how long the vaccine offers protection. The good news is that fully vaccinated people can safely resume most of the activities they put on hold since the pandemic began. Let’s explore what life after the COVID-19 vaccine looks like.
What does it mean to be fully vaccinated?
You are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after your second shot (or two weeks after your first and only shot if you received a single-dose vaccine). This period gives your body time to build antibodies that help fight infection if you’re exposed to the coronavirus.
What activities are safe to do after getting the vaccine?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it’s safe for fully vaccinated people to do the following:
- Resume the outings and social activities you enjoyed before the pandemic.
- Travel within the US without getting tested or quarantining after travel.
- Travel internationally with care. Some countries are still locked down or require testing before travel. A negative test result or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 is also required before boarding an international flight to the US.
- Wear a mask in public if required or if transmission rates rise in your area.
Can I contract COVID-19 after being vaccinated?
As with other vaccines, such as the flu shot, the COVID-19 vaccine reduces the likelihood of being infected. If you do get sick, the vaccine significantly lowers the chances of severe illness, hospitalization, and death.
Do I ever have to quarantine after being vaccinated?
Unvaccinated people should quarantine for 14 days if they learn they have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19. Rather than quarantining, you should get tested three to five days after exposure if you’re fully vaccinated, even if you have no symptoms. Then, wear a mask in public for 14 days after exposure or until you test negative for COVID-19.
What should I do if I contract COVID-19 after being vaccinated?
When a fully vaccinated person contracts COVID-19, it’s known as a breakthrough infection. In such cases, the infected person can spread the illness to others. This is why you should be on the lookout for symptoms of COVID-19—including fever, cough, and shortness of breath—even if you’re vaccinated.
If you develop symptoms or test positive for COVID-19, self-isolate at home for 10 days. Sick or infected members of your household should avoid contact with healthy household members. This includes using separate bathrooms and sleeping areas, if possible, and wearing a mask when in unavoidable proximity.
Total Point Urgent Care offers rapid COVID-19 testing and high-quality COVID-19 care. We provide testing for all, no appointments or referrals necessary. For more information, feel free to contact us or visit one of our nine locations in Texas today.