Delay Holiday Parties, Travel With ‘Finish Line In Sight’: Ezike

ILLINOIS — Illinois’ top public health official on Wednesday urged residents to postpone their holiday plans until a coronavirus vaccine is widely available next year.

People should not travel or gather with others outside their households over the coming weeks, according to Illinois Department of Public Health director Dr. Ngozi Ezike, who reminded residents a coronavirus vaccine is on its way.

“Let’s think about this: if we’ve made it this far in the pandemic, with the finish line starting to come into sight, you deserve for you and your family and your friends to make it all the way to the other side,” Ezike said. “We’ve come too far to turn back now.”

IL Vaccine Plan: What You Need To Know

Illinois could start distributing the first doses of a vaccine next week, with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to review Pfizer’s vaccine Dec. 10. The FDA will consider Moderna’s vaccine Dec. 17, which would be distributed the week of Christmas if approved.

Both vaccines require two doses and, as more vaccines are approved, the state is expected to get a larger allocation to distribute. In Illinois, more than 654,000 health care workers and nearly 110,000 residents in long-term-care facilities are expected to be at the front of the line to receive a vaccine.

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Public health officials are expecting demand for coronavirus tests to increase as the winter holidays approach, but Ezike warned residents a negative test result does not make it safe to gather with others.

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“Remember, unless you quarantine completely after being tested, you could get infected at any time between that test and your intended visit,” Ezike said. “The negative test does not give you an ‘all clear’ forever and ever to gather with friends and family.”

“Of course, I have to say it: The safest way to enjoy the upcoming holidays would still be to be virtual,” Ezike said.

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The state’s top health official acknowledged many residents will ignore her advice and celebrate the holidays with family and friends, but she urged people to at least take precautions like limiting the size and length of the gatherings, wearing masks — especially while indoors — and understanding the potential health risks for those involved.

“Yes, they’re your family; yes, you want to hug and talk to people without a mask. But that’s exactly how the virus spreads,” Ezike said. “Would it kill you to wear a mask indoors? No, it won’t. But not wearing one could kill someone.”