Here we are again.
But this time, things feel different.
I have started working on our Year in Review edition, collecting snippets of articles from 2020 for the Dec. 31 Fitzhugh. Going back over news stories from March, when we first plunged into a lockdown, I have relived that wash of feelings: the uneasiness, uncertainty, stress and confusion.
We were frightened. But in a way, that fear of COVID-19 and what would happen next, helped us on the road to containment.
Within a couple of months, the curves in Jasper, Alberta, Canada, and many other countries were flattened.
But soon they started to rise again. Now, daily records of case numbers and hospitalizations are frequently being broken.
In Jasper, on Nov. 1, we had 32 total cases of COVID-19 diagnosed since the start of the pandemic. By Nov. 30 that number had more than doubled to 78.
We knew this second wave could happen, but how far it peaks is not inevitable. It is up to every one of us to do our part to help contain this virus again.
As time has gone on, some have less fear of COVID-19, some public attitude has shifted. Dr. Deena calls it “COVID fatigue”. We are all tired of this pandemic, but should hold out, be strong, and do what we can to help slow or stop the spread.
Please, abide by regulations. If more follow the rules now, fewer will get sick, and restrictions will be lifted sooner.
Let us be kind, community-minded and compassionate, and protect our elderly and most vulnerable through our everyday actions. We’re all in this together.
Fuchsia Dragon
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