What can I do after I am fully vaccinated? 

As President Biden marks 100 days in office, roughly 30 percent of the US population has been vaccinated. With vaccination levels inching closer to herd immunity, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released interim guidance on what is safe for fully vaccinated people to do.

Indoor versus Outdoor Gatherings

Is it safe to gather indoors with non-vaccinated people?

Individuals who have all been vaccinated can gather without masks and social distancing indoors. Vaccinated people can gather with one unvaccinated bubble without masks or social distancing as long as no one present faces a severe threat from covid-19 (i.e., pre-existing conditions that compromise one’s immune system).

The CDC also stated that both unvaccinated and vaccinated people should avoid large indoor gatherings such as parties, concerts, and other spaces where social distancing is impossible.

Do I need to wear a mask outdoors?

Public health experts have long understood that the risk of becoming infected with covid-19 is much lower outdoors when the proper precautions are taken. When gathering with other fully vaccinated people, masks aren’t needed outside, but they are still encouraged in a large crowd.

Traveling

What restrictions exist to travel domestically?

There are no travel restrictions within the United States for fully vaccinated people. No tests are needed, and no self-quarantine is required upon arrival at your destination. Travelers should be aware that masks will still be required on planes, trains, buses, and transportation hubs like airports, train stations, and bus terminals.

Do I need to show a negative covid-19 test to leave the United States?

No. No federal rules state that you need a negative test to leave the country. However, you may need to present a negative test during the immigration process at your destination. It is best to plan and ensure you know the restrictions and rules in place at your final destination and any layovers along the way.

Will I need to show a negative covid-19 test to enter the United States?

Yes. Before boarding an international flight to the United States, a negative covid-19 test will need to be presented. To be prepared, it is advised that you understand the process of getting a test in the country you are visiting and make a plan to get tested three days before your return date. Additionally, the CDC advises that all international travelers get tested 3-5 days after returning from their travels. However, fully vaccinated travelers will not need to self-quarantine upon arrival to the United States.

General Guidance

I was exposed to covid-19. Do I need to self-isolate?

No, fully vaccinated people do not need to self-isolate or get tested if they come in contact with someone who has tested positive unless:

• You begin to show symptoms within fourteen days 


• You live with unvaccinated people to who you could transmit the virus.  


Why do I still need to wear a mask if I am vaccinated?

Public health experts have made their position on masks clear: they are among our most essential tools in fighting covid-19 and limiting its spread.

Part of the guidance released by the CDC states that experts are still unsure how vaccinated people transmit the virus. Additionally, the clinical trials that led to all vaccines being approved occurred when the variants currently infecting the majority of people in the United States, were not present. While preliminary data shows that the vaccines are still effective in preventing infection, how effective they are compared to the other strains present in the clinical trial is largely unknown.