Viewpoint: Even if dangerous variants emerge in the future, here’s a case for why it’s time to remove all restrictions

Leana Wen | Washington Post | February 16, 2022

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As the omicron blizzard recedes, and as more Americans itch for pandemic restrictions to be lifted, a vocal segment of the country is pleading for caution. As with omicron, they argue, the possibility of an unforeseen variant remains a serious threat.

They’re right; new and possibly dangerous variants are likely to emerge. But it is precisely because of this future threat that we need to allow normalcy now.

Many areas are already seeing a steep decline in infections. New York City’s case numbers are about seven times lower than just three weeks ago, and hospitalizations are down.

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Between the vaccinated and those with at least temporary immunity due to recent infection, we should have enough population immunity to experience a lull in the coming months.

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So while the much-hyped “hot vax summer” of 2021 famously did not materialize, thanks to the delta variant, maybe this time we can enjoy a “hot vax spring.”

That would mean, in areas where hospitalizations are declining, the rapid removal of restrictions with the understanding that they may need to come back if new threats emerge. Doing so could give weary Americans much-needed respite while also preserving public health authority for when it’s needed again.

This is an excerpt. Read the original post here.