Local doctor warns people to make wise decisions when planning for Easter holiday

PITTSBURRGH — As we get closer to Easter, families are making tough decisions about what they’re doing for the holiday.

“We didn’t have Thanksgiving. We didn’t have Christmas. We probably will not get together with anyone,” said Karen Corbly.

Corbly said the risk isn’t worth it.

“We aren’t afraid, we are just trying to be safe and I would never forgive myself if someone got hurt because of us,” she said.

“The biggest thing is have as many vaccinated people there as you can,” said infectious disease expert Dr. Amesh Adalja. “If everyone is vaccinated, just have Easter. Have it as if its 2019.”

Adalja said if not everyone at your gathering has the vaccine, consider having the celebration outdoors and following proper safety procedures. The same goes for church services.

“If you’re a vaccinated person, there’s no issue with going to a religious gathering. If you’re not vaccinated, just remember to wear a mask,” he said.

Adalja said he anticipates an increase in cases after the holiday, but he doesn’t expect as many hospitalizations because so many people in the at-risk categories have already been vaccinated. The vaccine doesn’t necessarily prevent someone from getting sick, but it does lessen the symptoms and can prevent severe illness.

Cox Media Group