The Unsung Heroes: Americans Who Still Take COVID-19 Seriously

As the pandemic's emergency phase has come to an end, some Americans remain on high alert, navigating daily life with caution, particularly those like 55-year-old Susan Scarbro from Sunset Beach, North Carolina. Scarbro lives with multiple immune disorders, making her particularly vulnerable to COVID-19.

Scarbro recently found herself in a bowling alley, her focus momentarily shattered by what she feared might be a cough nearby. "Every minute, anyone could cough, just incidentally," she expressed. "And that cough could be the one thing that makes me sick." This sentiment reflects the ongoing fear and vigilance many immunocompromised individuals feel even as the country moves on.

This month marks five years since the first confirmed COVID-19 case in the U.S., and the virus has tragically claimed 1.2 million American lives. The long shadow of the pandemic still looms large, forcing many to maintain strict health precautions—mask-wearing, social isolation, and even resorting to unconventional methods like gargling antiseptic.

Online communities have emerged where these individuals share research about the risks of repeated infections and the potential for cognitive decline. As friendships have strained, they continue searching for connections that bolster their mental health. Scarbro's involvement in a bowling league has provided a vital link to her community, but she's noticed a shift in people’s perceptions. "There was once more respect and understanding, but now they expect me to be over it. They don't realize these precautions are what I've needed long before COVID-19."

Most Americans now have some level of immunity to COVID-19 through infections or vaccinations. However, individuals like Scarbro, who has common variable immune deficiency, live in a world where relaxation is a foreign concept. "There's never a time when they can relax a little bit," noted Dr. Andrew Pekosz, a virologist from Johns Hopkins University, emphasizing the emotional toll this constant watchfulness takes.

Taking Precautions for Loved Ones

Bazia Zebrowski, a 61-year-old from Newbury, Ohio, used to cherish outings with friends and enjoyed life with her dog. Now, due to her myalgic encephalomyelitis, she rarely leaves home, entrusting errands to her husband who wears his mask in public. Zebrowski reframes her caution as "COVID competent" rather than fearful, highlighting her awareness of the risks without succumbing to irrational anxiety.

"I miss the illusion that people are willing to care for each other," she lamented. The pandemic has unveiled the chasm in understanding that many with chronic illnesses have faced.

In a similar vein, Steve Alejandro, 42, from Missouri, calls himself a "COVID shielder." His priority is safeguarding his wife, who also suffers from myalgic encephalomyelitis. He adapted his career to work from home and made heartfelt sacrifices to maintain his family's health and safety. Meanwhile, Kira Levin, a 29-year-old caregiver for her 98-year-old grandmother, remains vigilant to avoid COVID-19, taking every precaution, including wearing a mask at family gatherings.

The Challenges of Connection

Sisters Jacqueline and Alexa Child, based in Denver, have taken their commitment to safety further by launching a dating app called Dateability, aimed at individuals who are disabled or chronically ill. With 10% of their 30,000 users identifying as "COVID Cautious," they seek to foster connections among like-minded people navigating the same health-conscious spaces.

Yale immunologist Dr. Akiko Iwasaki encapsulates the ongoing threat: "I just can't afford to get sick and become chronically ill." Her commitment to wearing masks indoors and receiving regular vaccinations exemplifies the continued caution among health professionals.

A New Reality for Vulnerable Communities

For Scarbro and many others with chronic illnesses, returning to "normal" is a complicated and daunting task. As society moves on, the need to remain vigilant creates an ever-challenging environment for families striving to keep their loved ones safe. The recognition of differing realities is vital as the world shifts into a post-pandemic era, highlighting that not everyone has the luxury to live without fear.

“I feel very scared about the future,” echoed Scarbro. “I respect that others want to move on, but it complicates my family's efforts to ensure that I stay safe.” The reality is that for many, precautions will continue to be a way of life as they navigate the uncharted waters of a world that appears to be moving forward without looking back.