When can we realistically expect things to improve?

DETROIT – Due to the new year, Michigan did not release state numbers on Thursday or Friday COVID.

An update is expected on Saturday that will contain data from the last days.

As the launch of the vaccine continues, many people are excited that 2020 is finally in the past. While that doesn’t mean the coronavirus disappeared at midnight, experts weigh in when it’s realistic to expect things to return to normal.

Current estimates believe that it is likely to be closer to the end of 2021. Although there are vaccines, the number of people being vaccinated and how quickly it will have an impact on this schedule.

Dr. Matthew Sims is the director of infectious disease research at Beaumont Royal Oak. He said wearing a mask, social distance and other precautions will remain in place until at least 70 percent of the population is vaccinated.

“We’re going to need that until we’re close to 70 percent,” Sims said. “And that will get us to 70%.”

He’s not the only one who believes that. The owner of Room 4, Dr. Frank McGeorge – Henry Ford’s emergency physician – said the same thing.

“There is already evidence that there will be hesitation about the vaccine, especially in minority communities. There are also some things we don’t know about vaccines that will play a role – how effectively they will stop transmission, not just symptomatic diseases, that’s a big difference, “McGeorge said. “Also, how long does immunity last? These things will affect how long it takes to reach broad public immunity. “

The same thoughts are supported at the national level. Dr. Anthony Fauci said masks, social distance and other precautions will have to remain in place until most people are vaccinated.

Restrictions may ease in the summer, but things are not expected to return to normal by the end of the year.