GUELPH – Although COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations have dropped, the World Health Organization has not declared the pandemic over, and local residents should be cautious this summer, says the local health doctor.
“COVID is still with us,” Dr. Nicola Mercer, CEO of Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health, said in a June 9 interview.
“It simply came to our notice then. Either you get sick, or worse. But now we all have some control over how it will affect us. “
Vaccine warrants have already been lifted and provincial mask warrants will be lifted this weekend, although some settings, such as local hospitals and long-term and nursing homes in the province, are still they require masks.
But for the most part, people can make a living, see family and friends, go on vacation and all that has been missing in the last two years.
Still, many people assume that they will have COVID-19 despite their best efforts, and this is just the new reality.
DR. NICOLA MERCER
“I hear it too, but do you want to get it a day or two before your daughter’s wedding? Your graduation? Your new job or your vacation? It can be quite negative in a negative way, “said Mercer.
“You probably don’t want to miss your daughter ‘s wedding. So check out this piece.
“Keep up to date with your vaccine. Wear a mask for the two weeks leading up to your event. Do what you can to mitigate the virus.”
While the virus is still circulating, it is circulating at low levels.
This is largely the result of warmer weather and more outdoor living and this is typical of respiratory illnesses, Mercer said.
For the same reasons, Mercer expects to see a seventh wave in the fall, as we all move inland again.
Unless there is a more powerful and deadly strain, Mercer said he expects clinics for COVID-19 booster vaccinations as there are for the flu.
Mercer said at the time, anyone 60 or older is eligible for two shots and two reinforcements. Those over 12 can receive their two prey plus a booster. Appointments can be booked at public health or through GPs.
Health Canada is expected to approve the six-month to five-year-old vaccine by the end of June, and more will be available once it becomes available.
“We’ve already had communication with family health teams,” Mercer said.
“We will need family doctors to administer the vaccine to the little ones.”
Masks are optional in most configurations and that’s fine, Mercer said. Wear a mask or do not wear a mask, depending on your comfort level.
But masks offer protection and are a good idea before the holidays or other important events.
So don’t judge those who wear a mask 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,” he said.
“This is the best way to be the least affected by COVID-19.”