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Just six hours after the FDA approved COVID-19 vaccines for children under 12, my sister, Amy, was messaging the family group chat. “CVS is taking appointments,” she wrote, and within minutes, my kids were prepped to get vaccinated. I teared up as they received their shots, a moment I had eagerly awaited since the pandemic began. At last, they were less at risk of severe illness or death. But just because they’re vaccinated doesn’t mean they’ll be unveiling their smiles anytime soon. It’s winter, after all, so masks are staying on. I just ordered a fresh supply from Amazon.
And I have plenty of reasons for this decision.
Reason 1: Understanding COVID Vaccines
COVID vaccines were developed not to completely prevent infection but to protect against severe outcomes, such as death. I’m incredibly grateful that my vaccinated kids are far less likely to die from COVID. However, we don’t yet fully understand the risks of vaccinated children developing conditions like MIS-C, a serious inflammatory syndrome. While I hope the chances are low, there’s still a possibility. Plus, I worry about my kids contracting COVID and potentially spreading it to those who could face severe consequences.
Additionally, vaccine effectiveness diminishes over time. For instance, one study indicated that Pfizer’s efficacy drops to just over 50% after 19 weeks post-second shot, sparking discussions about booster doses. In my community, vaccination rates remain low due to various factors, including misinformation. This means that even if my kids are vaccinated, there’s still a chance they could catch the virus, so we’re staying masked up.
Reason 2: The Broader Benefits of Masks
Masks don’t just help prevent COVID; they also reduce the transmission of other illnesses. When people breathe, they release all sorts of germs, including cold and flu viruses. I’d rather not inhale any of that. If my children and I wear masks, we can lower our chances of catching not only COVID but also the common cold and flu, especially if we maintain good hygiene and get our flu shots (seriously, get vaccinated).
I dislike being sick, and I definitely don’t want my children to be ill either. We all know how it goes: one child gets sick and then it spreads like wildfire through the family. Wearing masks can help avoid that unfortunate cycle, so my kids will be donning their masks like adorable little surgeons all winter long.
Reason 3: Protecting Others
I believe in looking out for the community; public health is a shared responsibility. If my kids are unwell, wearing masks can help prevent them from passing anything on to others. This isn’t a new concept—many cultures have adopted mask-wearing long before COVID made headlines.
But I’m Not Being Overly Cautious
My kids won’t wear masks outside, where sunlight reduces virus transmission. In small gatherings with family or close friends, I don’t see the need for masks either. However, in public spaces, we’ll all be masked up in seasonally appropriate styles.
I’ve never been the kind of parent who drags my kids to crowded indoor places during the winter months. “No way, it’s cold and flu season,” I’d say, and they understood that other kids can be germ factories. It took the pandemic to make me more cautious, and while I once believed in letting kids explore, I’ve become more vigilant when it comes to viruses.
So yes, my kids will be wearing masks until this pandemic is truly under control. Don’t expect to see their faces until they’re practically adults!
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Summary:
In light of the ongoing pandemic, my children will continue to wear masks even after being vaccinated. While vaccines significantly reduce the risk of severe illness, they don’t eliminate the possibility of contracting or spreading the virus. Wearing masks also helps protect against other illnesses, which is a bonus during cold and flu season. I prioritize public health and community responsibility, so while my kids will enjoy outdoor time without masks, they’ll remain masked up in public spaces throughout the winter.