As of June 14, 2021, more than 64 percent of Americans had received at least their first vaccination against COVID-19. MyObesityTeam members who have been vaccinated are eagerly sharing their hopes and plans now that vaccination has lowered their risk for experiencing serious illness from the potentially deadly virus.

“I have been double vaccinated since Feb. 25, but still cautious,” one member wrote. “Happy that things here in California are getting a little more relaxed as more people get vaccinated.”

Fun With Friends and Family

Many MyObesityTeam members are excited for fun activities with friends and family again. “My son is coming Friday … I have not seen him in 14 months,” one member wrote.

Others are reveling in a return to normal social plans. “I got my second vaccine — will be so nice to again hug my loved ones,” said a MyObesityTeam member.

Still others are nervous about socializing again after being quarantined for a year — and that’s normal, psychologists say.

“Reentering society and socializing again is going to be a process,” wrote author Clay Drinko, Ph.D., in March. “Just like adjusting to pandemic life last year, this new transition is going to have its ups and downs. Instead of having unreasonably high expectations (I’m going to host a block party and be the belle of the ball), try to take it one step at a time and be curious about how each new interaction affects you (I'm going to try to talk to the neighbor and just see how it goes).”

Medical Appointments and Personal Care

About half of American adults have delayed or skipped some aspect of medical or dental care during the COVID-19 pandemic. As MyObesityTeam members get vaccinated, many are taking the earliest opportunity to schedule medical visits, eye appointments, dental exams, and personal care visits.

“Rewarded myself for losing 10 percent of my body weight with a trip to my favorite salon! Feeling like a billion bucks!” one member wrote.

Looking Forward To Travel

As travel restrictions lift and more people are vaccinated, some MyObesityTeam members are beginning to look forward to their first vacations in more than a year.

“On vacation with my wife to the great Smoky Mountains,” one member wrote. Another said, “I'm getting excited to go on a small family vacation. It's long overdue. As a family, we have been through a lot together and all deserve this much-needed adventure.”

Staying Cautious After Vaccination

Members report that they’re continuing to be cautious when socializing. “We still have the mask mandate for health care, public transportation, and schools — but no matter what, I will still wear my mask,” one MyObesityTeam member said.

Even after you are fully vaccinated, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends continuing to take precautions such as:

• Wearing masks
• Staying six feet apart from others in public spaces
• Avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated public spaces

Ensuring that you continue to prioritize your safety can help ease your mind as you get back into the swing of post-vaccine life, wrote Marina Harris, Ph.D., in May. “By following guidelines and associated protocols, combined with the vaccine, you’re being as safe as you can possibly be.”

Local health authorities may have additional guidelines in place for your state or county. Be sure to check what’s permitted before planning activities.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyObesityTeam is the social network for people with obesity and their loved ones. On MyObesityTeam, more than 50,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with obesity.

Have you been vaccinated against COVID-19? Are you making plans now that your risk for infection is lower? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.