Well into our quarantine journey, we finally have reason to hope. Highly effective vaccines brought to market in record time offer light at the end of this long tunnel in many countries. But as fully-vaccinated people begin to resume public life that bears some semblance to life B.C. (Before COVID), we see a new syndrome emerging. You’re familiar with COVID-19, and maybe even MIS-C and PASC (“Long Haul COVID”). But have you heard of PQRS?
Post-Quarantine Reentry Syndrome
Post-Quarantine Reentry Syndrome (PQRS) is on the rise, in step with national vaccination rates. PQRS is generally characterized by the unique mix of elation and anxiety upon engaging in public life post-pandemic.
You may have PQRS if you experience the following symptoms:
- Fear of wearing pants with buttons and/or without spandex
- Overuse of hugging, high-fiving, and other forms of human affection
- Dramatic reduction of the phrases “you’re on mute” and “can you see my screen”
- Loss of aversion to seeing people in groups and/or crowds in movies filmed B.C.
- Increased urgency to book extravagant travel plans
- Loss of anonymity due to reduced mask-wearing over time, often accompanied by a dramatic reduction in mask-ne (acne resulting from constant mask use, especially prevalent in summer months)
- Previously unexperienced enthusiasm for shots
- Increased anxiety if required to resume a B.C.-level hygiene routine
- New and unusual joy at going to a crowded bar or restaurant without fear
Coping with PQRS
To help you manage PQRS, we’ve gathered some valuable resources for you:
- A refresher on handshake etiquette
- How to select pants that fit: for the ladies, for the gents
- How to behave at a bar, including 17 unwritten rules
- How to high-five, including the classic, and down low (note: if the high fivee rejects your offer, move your hand down to your hip in the “down low” variation, and then say, “Too slow.” This gives the appearance you are rejecting the person instead.)
- CDC’s guide to body, facial, and dental hygiene
- Where to find the best travel deals
- Tips for making eye contact in person
All levity aside, should you need support for managing symptoms of Long Haul COVID, we’re here to help. Otherwise, we at MediFind wish you the very best on your new journey with PQRS as we enter the “new normal” post-pandemic in many parts of the world.
