It’s safe to say we’re all familiar with the term “Hot Girl Summer”, coined from the 2019 hit song by Megan Thee Stallion. What you may not be familiar with; yet, is the recently created term “Shot Girl Summer”. Shot Girl Summer, or Hot Vax Summer, is referring to our upcoming months of letting loose after being inside, for those who were properly social distancing, for over a year. As of May 19, 37% of the U.S. population has been fully vaccinated and; according to the CDC, people are fully vaccinated are largely able to go indoors and outdoors without a mask. With a stronger sense of safety than we’ve experienced since the beginning of the pandemic, people are trying to make up for lost time. Before you start off your Shot Girl Summer, here are a few tips we recommend you keep in mind:
- Wear A Mask When with Crowds
Wearing a mask, properly, remains one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect you and those around you from Covid-19. While the vaccine is incredibly effective in protecting us during the course of this pandemic, we still need to keep in mind individuals who are more susceptible to this disease; such as those who are immunocompromised, elderly, those who have yet to receive the vaccine and so on. Plus, think about all the sun protection your face will be getting as a bonus.
- Sanitize. Sanitize. Sanitize
Anyone who’s ever experienced a New York summer can confirm that it’s hot, sweaty and grimey. All the more reason to consistently carry around liquid sanitizer and sanitizing wipes. Besides protecting you from any dangerous germs, you can keep your hands, and other body parts, clean as you’re traveling to an open-rooftop bar.
- Carry Your Vaccination Card
Many events in the city require you to show proof of vaccination or (depending on the event) proof of Covid-19 antibodies upon attendance. One example would be Central Park’s annual tango dancing series, a free tango lesson is offered at the beginning of the evening and followed by partnered dancing. Besides carrying the vaccination card in your wallet, there are a few alternative methods you can check out.
- Take It One Step At A Time
While the idea of going out again and experiencing our “new normal” may seem exciting, it can also be really jarring. It’s important to remember that there will be a period of adjustment as we get used to going back to the office, going out again to meet friends and maybe finally having a first date that’s not on Zoom. Remember to continue talking to the people who have kept you sane during the pandemic, seek out help if you need it and just take things one step at a time.
*These tips were not written by a medical professional. For further understanding on this topic, please discuss with your health care provider and consult your specific state’s medical guidelines.
GG