GUELPH – While COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are declining, the World Health Organization has not declared the pandemic over and locals need to be vigilant this summer, a local health official said.
“COVID is still with us,” said Dr. Nicola Mercer, CEO of Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health, in a June 9 interview.
“It could be an inconvenience at best. Either you get sick or worse. But now we all have a little control over how it will affect us. “
Vaccine mandates have already been removed, and provincial mask mandates will be abolished this weekend, although some places, such as local hospitals and long-term care and retirement homes in the province, still require masks.
But for the most part, people can take care of their lives, see family and friends, take vacations and everything they’ve missed in the last two years.
However, many people assume that they will get COVID-19 despite all their efforts, and this is just the new reality.
DR. NICOLA MERCER
“I hear it too, but do you want to take it a day or two before your daughter’s wedding?” Your graduation? Your new job or your vacation? That can be quite detrimental in a negative way, “Mercer said.
“You probably don’t want to miss your daughter’s wedding. So control this piece.
“Keep up with your vaccine. Wear a mask in the two weeks before your event. Do what you can to alleviate the virus. “
While the virus is still circulating, it is circulating at low levels.
This is largely the result of warm weather and more outdoor life, and this is typical of respiratory diseases, Mercer said.
For the same reasons, Mercer expects to see a seventh wave in the fall as we all move indoors again.
Unless there is a more powerful and deadly strain, Mercer said he expects to have COVID-19 booster clinics, as there are for influenza.
At the moment, Mercer said that everyone aged 60 and over is entitled to two and two booster injections. Those aged 12 and over can get their two injections plus a booster. Hours can be booked in public health or through family doctors.
Health Canada is expected to approve the vaccine for children aged six months to five years by the end of June, and more information will be available once it becomes available.
“We’ve already communicated with family health teams,” Mercer said.
“We’re going to need family doctors to vaccinate the little ones.”
Masks are optional in most settings, and that’s good, Mercer said. Wear a mask or do not wear a mask, according to your own level of comfort.
But masks offer protection and are a good idea before a vacation or other important event.
So don’t judge those who wear masks or those who don’t, Mercer said.
“I know a lot of people are ready to move on, but my best advice is to keep up with the vaccine,” she said.
“This is the best way to be the least affected by COVID-19.”
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