Can You Get COVID-19 After You've Been Vaccinated?
![](https://img.lb.wbmdstatic.com/vim/live/webmd/consumer_assets/site_images/article_thumbnails/video/covid19-images/Vaccines_After_Vaccine_v3_1800_1200.jpg?resize=750px:*&output-quality=35)
Hide Video Transcript
Video Transcript
[MUSIC PLAYING]
So let's say, you've got your first COVID shot. Does that mean you can rip off your mask and run into a crowded room? The CDC, among others, say, not so fast. You'll have about 50% immunity after the first shot. The second shot, given three to four weeks later, offers about 95% immunity. Even then, it will likely take another week or two for maximum protection to kick in, which means you're still vulnerable for a period of time after you've been fully immunized. And the current thinking is that the vaccine's effectiveness will fade over time, although it'll probably keep you safe for a year or so.
Another thing to keep in mind-- you're also protecting others. Even though you might have immunity, it's still possible that you can transmit the virus to others. So yes, you should still wear a mask, practice social distancing, and frequently wash your hands even after you've been vaccinated.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
SPEAKER
Can I get COVID after I've had my shot? So let's say, you've got your first COVID shot. Does that mean you can rip off your mask and run into a crowded room? The CDC, among others, say, not so fast. You'll have about 50% immunity after the first shot. The second shot, given three to four weeks later, offers about 95% immunity. Even then, it will likely take another week or two for maximum protection to kick in, which means you're still vulnerable for a period of time after you've been fully immunized. And the current thinking is that the vaccine's effectiveness will fade over time, although it'll probably keep you safe for a year or so.
Another thing to keep in mind-- you're also protecting others. Even though you might have immunity, it's still possible that you can transmit the virus to others. So yes, you should still wear a mask, practice social distancing, and frequently wash your hands even after you've been vaccinated.
[MUSIC PLAYING]