"How is it possible not to know that while it may mutate to a weaker variant, it is equally possible to mutate to a harsher variant?"

Well, scientists did say ages ago that *usually* these things mutate to less harmful variants. But that's no guarantee.

Personally I'm still avoiding everyone. We have a sign on the door telling all callers to stand well back, and we're still having shopping delivered and washing/quarantining it! We may be the only people in the world still doing this.

I think most people think Omicron won't seriously hurt them - even long covid is temporary, so they just do what they want.

Personally, I'm not so sure as my husband is vulnerable. I've had a chest problem since the booster - so I won't be going for another one unless it clears up. These things add a degree of complication to the idea that vaccine protects us so the pandemic is over. It isn't.

Ireland sounds like a nice plan. Beautiful countryside, not too many people. We might come and join you! 😁