Preliminaryresearch suggeststhat the Omicron variant is two to three times more contagious than the Delta variant.
While vaccines prevent severe illness and hospitalization, they are less effective at preventing COVID-19 overall.
If were all getting together, lets all be vaccinated, Dr. Schaffner says.
And if Uncle Frank is not vaccinated, lets excuse him from the family gathering.
I know that can be difficult, but I think we can do this diplomatically.
If any family members are still not vaccinated, encourage first dose and boosters for those eligible.
Michael Saag, MD, is a professor of medicine in the division of infectious disease at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Dr. Schaffner also suggestsCOVID-19 testing beforegathering and talking about social distancing practices.
Its not a perfect solution, he adds.
But none of these things are perfect.
Its Amazing How Its All Connected.
Also we should be aware of the vaccination status of those in the group.
If you’re able to take your gathering outdoors, that is ideal.
If you cant, enhance ventilation indoors as much as it’s possible for you to.
Is asking people to be vaccinated a good idea?
Many people want to go to religious gatherings; however, it might be best to consider attending virtually.
Michael Saag, MD, is a professor of medicine in the division of infectious disease at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Reassess travel plans
Traveling over the holidaysgets very dense, says Dr. Schaffner.
So…I think you should probably give that an extra thought.
Do you want to take that risk?
Particularly with Omicron just picking up speed.
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