How COVID-19 Vaccines Can Help Us Get Back to Normal

Vaccines are a hot topic right now. With many rumors circulating, it can be difficult to access accurate information. The good news is that current data shows the approved vaccines are safe for most people. There are numerous benefits that come with vaccination. In fact, it’s the best way to ensure we get back to normal quickly.

The Benefits of the COVID-19 Vaccine

Travel

Some countries are making vaccination a requirement for entry. If you plan to travel internationally in the future, it makes sense to get vaccinated now. Although vaccination is not required for domestic travel in the United States, the shot will help you and others stay safe during your trip.

Visits

The ability to safely visit with loved ones is one of the best reasons to consider vaccination. Missing friends and family was, for a lot of us, one of the toughest aspects of 2020 and the ongoing pandemic. Luckily, the vaccines and strong vaccination programs are bringing people back together while contributing to COVID-19 prevention.

Unmasking

The CDC recently announced that individuals that are fully vaccinated can now attend small indoor gatherings without masks.

Peace of Mind

Living in fear is bad for your mental and physical health. Since early 2020, worries about catching or spreading the virus have been at the forefront of many minds, causing excess stress and worry. The vaccine provides a significant reduction in the odds of experiencing severe illness from the coronavirus. This makes it a wonderful tool for both preventing COVID-19 and achieving greater peace of mind.

Should Anyone Avoid the Covid-19 Vaccine

The vaccines are safe for the vast majority of people. Nonetheless, those with certain underlying medical conditions will need to give the decision some consideration. If you have an underlying medical condition or history of anaphylaxis, have a conversation with your primary care provider about the best approach for your condition.

The Importance of the Antibody and PCR Tests for COVID-19

Many states are now reopening thanks in large part to the vaccines. Governors are reducing restrictions and allowing businesses to operate at full capacity. Some are considering allowing children to return to school in the fall. Tourist attractions also are seeing a resurgence of business.

All of this is wonderful, but as we move toward a post-COVID reality, we need to be careful. Along with continuing to vaccinate as many people as possible, we must also stay on top of testing. This ensures people who do have the virus can avoid spreading it further by following appropriate measures. Adequate testing for both the virus and its antibodies will also help experts keep track of how well the vaccines are working.

Who Should Get a COVID-19 Antibody Test?

You may have had COVID-19 without knowing it. If you suspect this might be the case, consider getting a COVID-19 antibody test. It is important for your doctor to know whether you have had a previous infection. The virus can cause long-term, problematic symptoms, such as trouble breathing or joint pain. Your antibody test could help your doctor pinpoint the cause of these symptoms if they originated from an asymptomatic COVID-19 infection. MD Now’s new antibody test can also detect an immune response from successful COVID-19 vaccination. A COVID-19 antibody test will grant you peace of mind that you have developed antibodies that may help protect you from the virus  in order to take the first steps back towards pre-COVID life.

Even if you are symptom-free, a COVID-19 antibody test is still a smart idea. Experts look at the data from antibody testing to determine how many people have recovered from the illness.

Who Should Get a PCR Test for COVID-19?

The PCR test accurately detects the presence of the virus using a process called a polymerase chain reaction. The CDC recommends that anyone with symptoms of COVID-19 get tested immediately. You should also consider a test if you have spent time around an infected person.

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