Family dynamics, I'll be the only one not vaccinated

[KatyS36]

Its fabulous news that there is a vaccine. I'm entirely supportive of the prioritisation, with most vulnerable getting it first.

Current policy is that Phase 1 will cover everyone over 50, medical people, those with health conditions. Again, fully supportive of this.

I'm 48, and I'm going to be the only one not vaccinated in phase 1 in my immediate family, my extended family and my husbands extended family. Everyone else qualifies by being over 50, a child, an existing condition or a healthcare worker.

Really worried about pressure to join in with events, and feeling pretty vulnerable. Already talk of planning things for next year. Jury seems to be out as to if the vaccine prevents you passing on COVID. Looks like I will be the only one at risk and dreading the dynamics.

Just feel like either I have to risk my health, be excluded from taking part or be the reason events (inc a memorial service for by MIL) have to be even further postponed.

Anyone else feel similar?

Maybe next year there’ll be the option to pay for a private one.

I thought children weren't being vaccinated?

You're right, children aren't being vaccinated. But DD is 10 so her risks whilst not zero are extremely low.

Are you in the UK OP?

It's waaaaay too early to start worrying about hypotheticals. Chill and enjoy Christmas.

If the people around you are vaccinated, your risk is very low.

I haven't heard that children will be vaccinated??
Plus to get all those done will be a pretty extended phase 1, surely that won't be completed any time soon? I'm early 50s and not holding my breath.

As the population gets vaccinated, the chance of catching it and passing it on goes down substantially.

Don't borrow trouble, as the saying goes. Cross the bridges when you come to them.

Thanks everyone for you calm words of wisdom.

Starting to feel better and get some perspective.

There has been a lot of pressure from my SIL re socialising (she had COVID early and is convinced she has antibodies) and I've been worried that this would further ramp up once everyone but me was vaccinated.

Some very wise words, posted kindly, in this thread to keep in mind. Thank you.

this is when herd immunity applies

All vaccinated people should still take care and wear masks in my view as it reduces the risk even further but if all but 1 is vaccinated in a family group the risk is by far reduced if they still do handwashing and social distancing it will go down again so overall your risk levels will be far lower even if you are not vaccinated

it will be interesting to see if they vax those that have had it or not or if its those that had it more than 3 mths ago etc

I've been very cautious around COVID. I hate being ill and am worried about the risks of long COVID.

Just worried about a situation where things are 'back to normal', no masks or social distancing, for everyone in my family apart from me.

I get herd immunity in principle, but my understanding is that at the moment they are not sure if this applies with the COVID vaccine, it might just protect the individual but still allow them to pass it on.

Hands face and space will still apply to those vaccinated for the foreseeable future ( I work in the NHS ) .

@RB68

it will be interesting to see if they vax those that have had it or not or if its those that had it more than 3 mths ago etc

People who have it, as long as they aren't currently unwell, will get the vaccine. (Source, Government guidelines for HCPs).

Have had it, I mean.

Yes people who have had a previous infection will still be advised to have a vaccination .