Does a booster shot mean I can go back to normal?

In recent years the word “normal” has lost its meaning. Every time we are vaccinated or a new COVID-19 strain emerges, we wonder when our lives will be back to what it was before the pandemic. This question is personal for everyone, depending on their level of risk, where they live and their experience with the virus.

What does this mean for everyday life, since booster vaccinations are included in the equation, which means that many people have received their third round of vaccination?

The first round of vaccination will protect people from the virus for about six months. After that, a breakthrough of COVID-19 is more likely, even for those who are largely protected from serious illness. Here’s what experts know about the booster and what “normal” means right now.

What does the booster do

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There are a lot of questions surrounding the booster as we are pretty early on in its management process. The COVID-19 booster is said to be very helpful for people with a weaker immune system or for people who are older or who are struggling with comorbidities. These were the people who were approved for the booster first and who are reaping the most benefits.

People who received the Johnson & Johnson Injection and are now receiving boosters should also have significant benefits. A study by the National Institute of Health said these people had 35-fold and 74-fold increases in antibodies after receiving either their Pzifer or Moderna booster.

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People who received their Moderna and Pfizer vaccinations should receive their booster after the six months are up. While you won’t be invincible, it goes without saying that a booster would increase the antibodies in your system and better protect you from the virus so you can hang out in public places – whether at school, in the office, or anywhere always – with more comfort.

It’s all about your situation

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Whether or not you can get back to normal depends on how many variables you are dealing with. If your immune system is not as robust, or you are struggling with comorbid conditions and live in an area with high COVID-19 transmission rates, you should be careful when entering crowded rooms, especially indoors.

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When meeting with others, it is important to consider their vaccination status. If they aren’t vaccinated, there is an increased risk whether you or your family members, who may be older or have comorbidities.

Consider rapid tests

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A helpful tool to consider during the holiday season would be the use of rapid tests. Before the season is in full swing, purchasing some of these tests can make it easier for people to spend time with others without knowing that everyone involved is safe. While they do not completely eliminate the risk, they make the pandemic a little more manageable and contagion less likely, especially if everyone involved is vaccinated.