As of June 14, 2021, more than 64 percent of Americans had received at least their first vaccination against COVID-19. MySpondylitisTeam 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 had my second COVID-19 vaccination yesterday, so I feel a bit more optimistic about the future,” shared one member. “Here's hoping for better times to come — take care, and love to you all!”

“Feels like I hit the lottery to get the vaccine,” said another. “Freedom is in [sight].”

Fun With Friends and Family

Many MySpondylitisTeam members are excited for fun activities with friends and family again. “Our two granddaughters are coming to visit us,” said one member. “We have not seen them in person for 16 months. I am so excited to see them and hug them in person.”

Others are reveling in a return to normal social plans. “Hello from another Texas girl!” wrote one member to another. “Love the weather today, and it really helps me feel better. Looking forward to a busy week, but that is a good thing. It means I have lots of contact with other people.”

Still others are nervous about socializing again after being quarantined for a year — and that’s normal, experts 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 MySpondylitisTeam members get vaccinated, many are taking the earliest opportunity to schedule medical visits, eye appointments, dental exams, and diagnostic tests needed for spondylitis monitoring.

Some members shared positive changes their health care providers have made to make treatment more comfortable during this time. “The pandemic, in many ways, has made a quieter life easier to accomplish,” said one member. “I am very careful because of my immunosuppressive treatment. Going to the doctor is better with all the chairs marked off and fewer patients around, easier to stay safe.”

Looking Forward To Travel

As travel restrictions lift and more people are vaccinated, some MySpondylitisTeam members are beginning to prepare for their first vacations in more than a year.

“I’m going to go on vacation for the first time in years in a week, and I’m really looking forward to it,” wrote one member.

Staying Cautious After Vaccination

Members report that they’re continuing to be cautious when socializing. Some note the value of being able to connect virtually during this time. “Enjoying friends through groups online started during COVID,” wrote one member.

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 psychologist 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

MySpondylitisTeam is the social network for people with spondylitis and their loved ones. On MySpondylitisTeam, more than 65,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with spondylitis.

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.