Thread by @PSampathkumarMD

50 million people in the US have received a COVID vaccine.
What changes after vaccination? 

FAQ Thread
1. Do vaccinated people still need to wear masks around others?

Yes. For the time being, until enough people in the population are vaccinated.

There is concern that vaccinated people can still get asymptomatic COVID and then transmit it to others. Until a large proportion of the population is vaccinated please wear a mask to protect others.

2. But what if everyone in a small family or social group is vaccinated?

In a small group in which everyone has been vaccinated its OK to meet without masks. Risk is low

In work settings masks are still recommended as verifying vaccination & health status of coworkers is tricky

3. What changes after vaccination?

After vaccination, your risk of severe disease from COVID goes down dramatically. Once 70-80% of a population has been vaccinated, many current restrictions may be lifted.

4. Can vaccinated people travel freely? 
 
Not yet. For the same reasons as  in FAQ #1. Also a lot depends on what we learn about ability of vaccines to prevent asymptomatic infections and to stay effective against COVID variants.

5. Can you visit a fully vaccinated family member if you have also been fully vaccinated?
 
Yes.

6. Can you safely travel on a plane to see a family member or friend if you have been fully vaccinated?
 
Yes. The risk to you will be extremely low.

7. Can you safely go eat indoors in restaurants after you have been fully vaccinated?
 
Yes. The risk to you will be extremely low.