The Coronavirus remains a threat in Canada, particularly to those with comorbidities. Even though most of society has returned to normal and pretends it no longer exists, the virus still lingers. And by all measures, it will continue to do so for the foreseeable future, especially as new variants continue to emerge to dilute the vaccine’s efficacy and treatment with monoclonal antibodies.
Experts have noticed a resurgence in cases after the newest variant. However, that doesn’t mean you must live in constant fear.
If you keep updated with your vaccine boosters, your protection against the virus should be maintained high enough to prevent death, hospitalization and severe long-term issues.
Maintaining high hygiene standards by washing your hands frequently and avoiding touching your face, staying home when sick and avoiding symptomatic people and large maskless crowds will also prevent you from falling ill.
You can also choose to wear a mask if it makes you feel more comfortable, and it is your right to do so. While a regular mask doesn’t keep you truly safe if those around you are maskless, it does provide some measure of protection against particles and will protect those around you. A properly fitted N-95 is the best mask if you are concerned or if you or a loved one suffer from comorbidities.
Maintain caution and take the steps to protect yourself and others, but do not worry yourself to death. Stress does lower your immune system, after all.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Refugee 613 launched its Multilingual Info Bank to help reduce barriers to accessing accurate information about COVID-19. The up-to-date resources are offered in multiple languages and formats and address topics such as COVID-19 recovery, research, seniors, mental health, and places of worship. A collection of multilingual fact sheets, videos, infographics and more, searchable by language, topic, and format, from Canadian and international sources. This is a great place to start if you want something specific for your community.
Please visit Refugee 613 for full access to the Multilingual Information Bank.
