Why should I wear a mask after I am vaccinated?

As more people become fully vaccinated, some are wondering why public health officials are still recommending wearing masks and practicing physical distancing. 

As part of Penn State’s “COVID-19 Vaccines: Asked & Answered,” Moriah Szpara, associate professor of biology and biochemistry and molecular biology, explains that data show that the COVID-19 vaccines are excellent at protecting against the most severe outcomes of COVID-19, but they may not prevent you from acquiring an infection and potentially spreading the disease to others. Szpara adds, “While everyone should get a vaccine when it’s available to them, it's very important to keep wearing a mask and wearing it correctly.”

As more people become fully vaccinated, some are wondering why public health officials are still recommending wearing masks and practicing physical distancing. As part of Penn State’s “COVID-19 Vaccines: Asked & Answered,” Moriah Szpara, associate professor of biology and biochemistry and molecular biology, explains that data show that the COVID-19 vaccines are excellent at protecting against the most severe outcomes of COVID-19, but they may not prevent you from acquiring an infection and potentially spreading the disease to others. 

 

Last Updated August 11, 2021