As workers return to the office, friends meet up and religious services move from online to in person, people are asking the question: to shake hands or not to shake hands? When the coronavirus crisis first began, an event planning business in Kansas City began selling “I Shake Hands” stickers. The words were meant to make social situations easier. “We didn’t want the sticker to say, ‘We Don’t Shake Hands’ because that is kind of off-putting,” said John DeLeon, vice president of operations and sales at MTI Event in Kansas City. “But if someone had the sticker on in that group, then that was the indication that it was OK.” DeLeon added that those who did not want to shake hands with others could simply choose not to wear a sticker. The handshake has been around for centuries. A widely held belief is that it started as a way to show that a person was offering peace and not holding a hidden weapon. But hands have germs. Dr. Anthony Fauci is America’s leading infectious disease expert. Last year, he warned, “I don’t think we should ever shake hands again, to be honest with you.” Dr. Amesh Adalja, another infectious disease expert, does not agree. He thinks people are overthinking the question of whether to shake hands or not. The answer, he says, is simple. “If you are worried about COVID, the best way to make handshakes safe is to be fully vaccinated," Dr. Adalja said. And for any other things that might be on people’s hands, just wash your hands before you touch your face.” Diane Gottsman is a national etiquette expert. Etiquette means the rules that make up the correct way to behave in a culture. Gottsman said she does not think the handshake will go away because of the pandemic. But she said people should take things slowly. “Don’t be the first to extend your hand, even if you are comfortable,” Gottsman said. “Watch the other person and allow them to extend their greeting of choice.”