Getting to see loved ones is a step closer to reality. The CDC has new guidelines about what it recommends people should and shouldn’t do once you’re fully vaccinated for the coronavirus. One includes you don’t always have to get tested if you’ve been exposed to the virus.
Jack May’s recent move from Indiana to Florida was bittersweet. He now has more picturesque views, more sunshine, but there were no proper goodbyes.
“We didn’t really get to get close with friends,” May said. “We had to do it by Skype and phone calls and standing out in the front yard.”
With the Tuesday’s vaccine event at his newfound community of South Gulf Cove, May is one shot closer to having visitors and safely. He’ll get his second shot in a few weeks.
“I just hope that it’s … less likely to get it or pass it on,” May said. “So hopefully we can get over this.”
South Gulf Cove in Charlotte County has a large senior population, and that’s where workers with Health Hero Florida administered 400 first-dose vaccines Tuesday.
The homeowner’s association at South Gulf Cove opened the appointments to people over 50 who registered through the state.
It was a stress-free opportunity for people fighting for the vaccine.
“When the neighborhood decided to go ahead and do this, it was super easy,” Julie Kuntz said. “We send an email. We got a time. We’re here. Done.”
The CDC says it’s OK for fully vaccinated people to hang out together indoors. They can also gather with people who are not vaccinated, as long as that group lives together.
It’s recommended everyone continue to wear a mask and social distance.
“I think the mask thing is probably never gonna change,” Steve Tortorelli said. “People are just more conscientious of what they know.”
The CDC is still learning how long the vaccine can protect people from the virus and variants. May says it gives him the freedom to be more active and more social.
May said he’s looking forward to, “Normal. To put it one word, get back to normal.”
The CDC still recommends avoiding large gatherings even if you’re fully vaccinated, and continue to keep an eye out for COVID-19 symptoms in the event you experience a breakthrough case.
Hero Health Florida is holding similar vaccine events in six counties across the state.
It’s finalizing plans to expand to Lee County.
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