Even with vaccinations rolling out, the threat of COVID-19 remains quite significant. There are still numerous positive cases and fatalities reported, and we really don't have enough data on how long the vaccine can protect us. Research indicates that fully vaccinated individuals can still be at risk of infection, particularly with the emergence of variants, which is why health experts are urging everyone to adhere to specific guidelines. For instance, studies have shown that vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and hospitalization, yet breakthrough infections can still occur, underscoring the importance of continued safety measures [1]. Here are some crucial COVID-19 safety tips that doctors recommend.
1) Wear Two Masks
Doctors suggest wearing two masks to enhance your protection against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It's not just about safeguarding yourself — it's also about protecting those around you. You might be asymptomatic and yet still carry the virus. Double masking is highly advised to help stop the spread, as it can significantly improve filtration efficiency. The best approach? Start with a surgical mask and layer a cloth mask on top, which can reduce the risk of transmission [4].
2) Limit Exposure
Identifying infected individuals can be tricky since many are asymptomatic until they test positive. To minimize your risk, try to stay home as much as possible. Gather all your essentials ahead of time, stock up on medications, and avoid unnecessary visitors. This approach is particularly important given that studies have shown that limiting social interactions can significantly reduce transmission rates [2]. It's a smart way to shield yourself from potential exposure.
3) Travel With Care
If you can, steer clear of public transportation. But if you must use it, remember to disinfect your seating area and any handles with wipes both before and after your ride. Don't forget to keep your hands away from your face after touching surfaces. Carrying an alcohol-based sanitizer while traveling is also a good idea, especially since hand hygiene has been shown to reduce the spread of the virus [3].
4) Be Aware of the Variants
The emergence of new variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus is alarming. Staying informed about these variants is crucial to protect yourself. Research has highlighted that both vaccination and prior infection can contribute to population-level immunity, but new variants may evade some vaccine-induced protection [3]. Always avoid areas where new variants have been reported to minimize your risk.
5) Do Get Vaccinated
COVID-19 vaccines have undergone extensive clinical trials to ensure they are safe. All currently authorized vaccines have the backing of health experts and national health authorities. Importantly, vaccination has been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of severe disease and hospitalization across various demographics, including those who have experienced previous infections [5]. So, don't hold out for a specific brand; get vaccinated with whatever is available!
6) Protect Your Children
Doctors advise that children aged two and older should wear masks to protect themselves, especially since many child cases are asymptomatic. Vaccination rates among children are crucial as well, given that studies indicate that vaccinated children can help reduce overall transmission rates within communities [2].
In light of the limited knowledge we have about this virus and vaccines, adhering to these guidelines is the best way we can protect ourselves and our loved ones.
References:
- Naomi C Brownstein, Harika Reddy, Junmin Whiting, Monica L Kasting, Katharine J Head, Susan T Vadaparampil, Anna R Giuliano, Clement K Gwede, Cathy D Meade, Shannon M Christy. COVID-19 vaccine behaviors and intentions among a national sample of United States adults ages 18-45.. PubMed. 2022.
- Jianwu Li, Na Jiang, Qing-Lei Zeng, Yue Zhang, Xinyuan He, Yao Chu, Wenni Jin, Yi Liu, Wan Shi, Miao Yang, Weihan He, Qing Han, Le Ma, You Xu, Yaling Guo, Lei Zhang, Fanpu Ji. The Epidemiological, Clinical Features and Outcomes of Imported Chinese COVID-19 Patients Following Inactivated Vaccines Injection.. PubMed. 2022.
- Fayette Klaassen, Melanie H Chitwood, Ted Cohen, Virginia E Pitzer, Marcus Russi, Nicole A Swartwood, Joshua A Salomon, Nicolas A Menzies. Population Immunity to Pre-Omicron and Omicron Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Variants in US States and Counties Through 1 December 2021.. PubMed. 2023.
- Mian Peng, Xiaowen Dou, Xiuming Zhang, Mingchen Yan, Dan Xiong, Ruiwei Jiang, Tong Ou, Aifa Tang, Xiqiu Yu, Feiqi Zhu, Weiqin Li. Protective antigenic epitopes revealed by immunosignatures after three doses of inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine.. PubMed. 2022.
- Chengliang Yang, Linda Lapp, Scott J Tebbutt. Vaccination After SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Post-COVID-19 Condition.. PubMed. 2023.