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Given the recent studies on vaccine efficacy, is it safe for me to work a part-time retail job (wearing a mask) or am I taking a huge risk?

This content was current as of the date it was released. In science and medicine, information is constantly changing and may become out-of-date as new data emerge.

Ask the Doctor Question:

I am a 64-year-old male diagnosed with CLL in 11/2019, in the “watch and wait” category with no treatment. I have no other health issues and have been fully vaccinated for COVID.  Given the recent studies on vaccine efficacy, is it safe for me to work a part-time retail job (wearing a mask) or am I taking a huge risk?

Answer: There is definitely a large risk in working with the public right now, especially given the incredible rise in case numbers and the increased contagiousness of Delta. Thank you for getting fully vaccinated. Our number one question would be, have you had your antibody level tested to find out if you were one who responded to the vaccine? And if so, how well did you respond? Please read the linked articles for more information on the varying degrees to which CLL patients have been responding here:

If you do decide to work with the public, we would minimally recommend you do the following: