August 13, 2021 – The dating behavior of adolescents and young adults poses a challenge in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic as some young people place their relationships above the risk of infection and may not follow recommended preventive measures.
“Recent research shows that many [adolescents and young adults] are not compliant or do not comply with these measures even if they have symptoms of COVID-19, ”said Yzette Lanier, PhD, assistant professor at New York University’s College of Nursing, whose thoughts on the matter were posted as a commentary in JAMA Pediatrics.
Still, romantic relationships are an important part of the social development of these age groups, she writes, and finding ways to increase security rather than discouraging these romances or hindering their development is critical.
Of course, the best way to keep young people safe is to vaccinate them. But for various reasons, Lanier said, a large percentage of adolescents and young adults are unvaccinated. Hence, public health news should focus on how to convince them to follow COVID-19 safety guidelines like wearing masks in their romantic relationships.
Young people in ongoing relationships should have conversations about how to protect one another, Lanier wrote.
“Participating in COVID containment behaviors to protect the partner can be a way for partners to demonstrate their love for one another and commitment to the relationship,” she said.
Safety arrangements between romantic partners, Lanier said, could include not just a vaccination, but a schedule for routine testing to reduce close contact with other people and put in place preventive strategies like wearing masks.
“Consistent adherence to COVID-19 prevention measures can be a common goal between partners that can add meaning to their relationship and strengthen their romantic bond,” the article reads.
Lanier wrote the comment a few weeks ago before the CDC tightened its guidelines on preventive measures for vaccinated people again in July.
But as the number of COVID-19 cases rises again, Lanier told WebMD, “Many states and local jurisdictions have either reintroduced COVID-19 control measures such as mask mandates or are considering reintroducing them. The CDC is also considering these mandates. In view of these factors, the consistent application of these measures in all adolescents and young adults remains important, even if COVID vaccines are available. “
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