I’ve had one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. How protected am I? 

Building community immunity takes time. Even after getting your first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, continue to stay vigilant and follow public health advice. Effectiveness of the first dose is not immediate. Receiving one dose is not the same as being fully vaccinated.

Relaxing public health measures for partially-vaccinated individuals is not recommended.

I have had my second dose. Can I go back to my regular activities, without public health measures?

It takes about two weeks for your immune system to develop protection. Continued public health measures like wearing your mask or face covering, practising physical distancing, and washing your hands frequently is necessary. This is recommended for everyone, including individuals who are fully vaccinated. Until we achieve widespread protection against the virus, we have to continue to protect those around us who have yet to be vaccinated or had their second dose.  

Vaccination is an extremely effective way to protect yourself from COVID-19. Due to the prevalence of the more contagious Delta variant in Ontario, at this time the Government of Ontario continues to recommend that fully-vaccinated people follow public health measures such as wearing a mask, practicing physical distancing, and washing your hands. Following public health measures will protect vulnerable individuals, especially children and people with medical conditions who are not able to be vaccinated.

For more information about what to expect after your COVID-19 vaccine, see Public Health Ontario’s fact sheet

 

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