INLAND EMPIRE – (INT) - Public health officials are cautioning residents who receive a COVID-19 vaccine to continue to follow COVID-19 safety protocol.

It offers protection for their families, friends and others who have not been vaccinated.

“While the two approved vaccines have shown to be very effective at preventing severe and symptomatic COVID-19, we’re still not sure how well they reduce transmission of the virus,” said San Bernardino County Public Health Director Corwin Porter. “Moreover, while some indications have been favorable, it’s still unclear how effective the vaccines are at preventing emerging new variants of the virus. Therefore, we are urging those who’ve been vaccinated to remain vigilant and continue taking steps to avoid spreading the virus.”

Porter said his recommendations are based on CDC guidelines: Stay at least six feet away from others; wear a face covering when distancing is impractical; avoid crowds and poorly ventilated spaces; cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing; and wash your hands thoroughly and often.

Vaccinated persons may not have to quarantine
Porter noted that when a vaccinated individual is exposed to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, he or she is not required to quarantine if they meet the following criteria:
• They are fully vaccinated (i.e., it has been two weeks or more since they received the second dose of either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine);
• It has been no more than three months since they received their last dose; and
• They have remained asymptomatic since the current COVID-19 exposure.

Story Date: March 8, 2021