Dr. Anthony Fauci, the country's top infectious disease expert, says the U.S. could potentially start getting back to normal as early as April of next year.

In an exclusive interview with CNN, Fauci says when we can gather together again freely depends on a number of factors.

He pointed to the manufacturer Pfizer's announcement that its early data shows its vaccine is more than 90% effective.

A second company is expected to unveil its own early results soon.

Meanwhile, the U.S. has surpassed 10.9 million COVID-19 cases and 245,000 deaths as many states continue to break daily records.

Even before we reach next April, the death toll from the pandemic could be devastating. An influential COVID-19 model projects the U.S. death toll may reach 439,000 by March 1.

Health experts and lawmakers are urging people to stay vigilant and continue to follow public health measures.