After nine grueling months of chaos, confusion, and grief, the FDA just approved the first COVID-19 vaccination. Just days ago, millions of doses were shipped out and administered to frontline workers nationwide. Though government officials and health experts say it will take months before the general public is vaccinated, many Americans are relieved to know that the end of a pandemic could be near.
A Brighter Tomorrow
Doctors and nurses breathe a sigh of relief as they recount the nightmare they’ve experienced this year. Appreciative of the hard work and effort medical experts and scientists put into developing a solution to the coronavirus, frontline workers everywhere look ahead to the millions of lives they’re able to save.
While some citizens remain skeptical about taking the vaccine, others want to be first in line. The idea of interacting with others, going back to work, sending the kids back to school, and resuming everyday life encourages them to look forward. From planning post-pandemic vacations to merely dreaming of the day they can make a reservation at their favorite restaurant, everyone’s prepared for the pandemic to be over.
Industries that were once ravished by the pandemic are starting to feel optimistic about the months ahead. Anxious travelers are doing everything from buying the latest bralette bikini top to reserving hotel rooms for a much-needed summer vacation. Even skeptical investors have started to loosen their purse string as the stock market sees positive momentum.
Stay The Course
As exciting as COVID-19 vaccinations are, you mustn’t get ahead of yourself. Though the vaccine does mean that things are getting better, we’re not there yet. The media reports that it could be months before there are enough vaccines for everyone to receive. Some people don’t plan on getting vaccinated at all.
In the process of vaccinating the masses, there is still a potentially high-risk of spreading the coronavirus. With millions of people diagnosed and undiagnosed with COVID-19, there is still a chance for communal spread. If Americans aren’t careful, it could result in an unprecedented spike in new cases, hospitalizations, and deaths.
Government health officials advise citizens to stay the course when it comes to the pandemic and maintain their health. They should continue wearing masks, washing their hands, and practicing social distancing. As rates are still high, most states will keep restrictions intact until they can flatten the curve. Therefore, residents are advised to stay close to home, avoid large gatherings, and self-quarantine after a vacation. Until a majority of American citizens have received the vaccine, there are still grave risks.
Americans should also continue practicing sound financial management habits. Don’t start making irrational purchasing decisions or plans for your future. Though vaccines should be available this spring or summer, recovering from the pandemic’s effects can take years. It is best to continue purchasing based on necessity, saving as much as you can, and investing in your financial future.
There’s Nothing Wrong With Dreaming
While staying the course is ideal until the pandemic has subsided, it doesn’t mean that you can’t dream. Thinking about plans for the future allows you to escape the present and soothe overwhelming emotions. So, if you want to think about having your friends over for games, music, and food, or you’re dreaming about laying on a tropical island sipping a mojito, knock yourself out. It won’t be long before you can turn those dreams into reality.
While history has shown us that it can take years to develop a vaccine, advancements in modern technology, science, and medicine have proven otherwise. The government’s approval of the COVID-19 vaccination means that the worst is almost behind us. After encountering such a traumatic experience these past few months, it’s only natural that you’d see a vaccine as a glimmer of hope. While it’s OK to think about a better tomorrow and set plans for the future, ensure that you keep things in perspective by staying the course.
