Arizona State University

Joshua LaBaer

As COVID-19 threatens to become the state's leading cause of death, some experts worry fatigue and overconfidence are driving Arizonans to slack off on safety and testing.

Even as vaccination slots fill as quickly as they open, testing numbers are worryingly low, says Joshua LaBaer, director of Arizona State University's Biodesign Institute. 

He worries that fatigue and overconfidence are driving Arizonans to slack off on safety.

“We've already seen clusters of cases emerging from people who decided after one vaccine dose that they were immune and got together with friends and celebrated, and that has led to the spread of disease," he said. 

The vaccines currently in use require two doses for full effectiveness. 

"And even with two doses, we still recommend mask-wearing and following the guidelines — in part because we know that the vaccine is not perfect," said LaBaer. 

Some who get the vaccine will still become infected and possibly spread the disease, just as some people who get the flu vaccine develop flu.

The state remains months away from enough people being vaccinated to consider lifting precautions.

→ Q&AZ: What You Need To Know About Getting The Coronavirus Vaccine In Arizona