Dr. Nesochi discusses gathering with family during the COVID pandemic on Shondaland.

How to Gather With Friends and Family Safely Despite a Growing Number of Covid Variants

by Nylah Burton

Dr. Nesochi Okeke-Igbokwe, a New York-based internist and media commentator, says the Delta variant is much more transmissible than other strains, but getting vaccinated and wearing masks indoors are the keys to remaining safe. “It is extremely risky at this point in the pandemic to travel and visit others if you are not fully vaccinated,” Okeke-Igbokwe says.

Here are some ways that you can keep safe while reuniting with those you love.

Get vaccinated

First and foremost — get vaccinated. “This should really be a non-negotiable agreement amongst family members to ensure everyone has protection against the potentially life-threatening consequence of a Covid-19 infection,” says Okeke-Igbokwe.

Gather outdoors when possible, and wear a mask indoors

As an airborne virus, it’s harder for the coronavirus to spread while people are outside in fresh, circulating air. But if you are indoors at a restaurant or mall, masking is a must. Okeke-Igbokwe says, “We should all take heed and adhere to the current CDC recommendations for mask wearing at indoor public venues, irrespective of vaccination status.”

 

Full article on Shondaland