Omicron

With COVID-19 (Omicron Variant) still a health threat, AARP has published an article with information for individuals who may be reluctant to mask up. Johns Hopkins 

Panagis Galiatsatos, MD,  says, “We know how COVID spreads, you have to breathe it in after someone else actively breathes it out.  With a mask on you take in a smaller viral load, and with a smaller load the vaccines are more effective.”  

The article also includes masking rules for 2022.

STATUS: VACCINATED 

If you’ve had a booster shot in the last 2 months, have no chronic health problems, and under age 65, you could consider going without a mask:

1. When attending an outdoor event
2. When gathering indoors with everyone being fully vaccinated, or a negative COVID test within the last 48 hours
3. Mask up when in the general public, the omicron variant causes the risks to rise

If you feel unsafe in any situation , the smart thing to do is mask up.

STATUS: UNVACCINATED

If you are over 50 and have not been fully vaccinated, consider yourself a high-risk – even if you have had COVID in the past. You still need to wear a mask.

1. Anywhere indoors in public, or outdoors when in crowds
2. Especially in hospitals, nursing homes, or any place with a vulnerable population
3. When entering places that have mask mandates

Consider this, “I look at wearing masks no differently than wearing a helmet to enjoy a motorcycle ride, says Dr. Galiasatos, “You are just being safe.”