There have been recent news reports about fully vaccinated people testing positive for COVID-19, known as breakthrough cases. We know this type of news can be unsettling so we’ve pulled together some resources to help make sense of the headlines.
Recent articles from The Washington Post and The New York Timesoffer perspective and useful information. Here are some key takeaways:
Vaccines are safe and effective - The COVID-19 vaccines available are highly effective in preventing COVID-19, especially in reducing the potential for hospitalization or death caused by the virus.
Breakthrough cases are rare - According to the CDC, breakthrough cases are expected but not common. In most cases, fully vaccinated people may feel mild symptoms or be asymptomatic. Severe symptoms can occur but are rare.
People who are not vaccinated are at greatest risk of infection and severe illness – A recent NPR report states, “More than 99% of recent deaths were among the unvaccinated, infectious disease expert Dr. Anthony Fauci said earlier this month on NBC'sMeet the Press, while Walensky noted on Friday that unvaccinated people accounted for over 97% of hospitalizations.”
Should you wear a mask in public? The CDC still says fully vaccinated people do not have to wear a mask in public, unless otherwise stated by the local jurisdiction or business, and has eased quarantine and testing requirements for fully vaccinated people who are exposed to COVID-19. However, it will not cause harm to wear a mask if you feel more comfortable wearing one in public.
What if you are fully vaccinated and immune compromised? The CDC recommends that people who are immunocompromised should talk to their medical provider about the potential for reduced immune responses to COVID-19 vaccines and follow current prevention measures, including wearing a mask, social distancing, and avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated indoor spaces to protect themselves against COVID-19 until advised otherwise by their healthcare provider.
Unfortunately, COVID-19 is still here. We will continue to provide updates on relevant COVID-related information as it becomes available.