The pandemic took its toll on everyone. After two years of lockdowns and new variants of COVID-19, we’re all looking forward to a sense of normalcy. The easing of public-health restrictions is a welcome reprieve and an important step toward the reopening of society.
As you plan activities and gatherings in the coming months, please consider your safety and the well-being of those around you.
Dr. Dominik Mertz, Medical Director of the Infection Control Prevention and Control Program, suggests that you ask yourself the following questions:
• How many people will be there?
• Will the activity or gathering be indoors or outdoors? If it is indoors, will it be well-ventilated?
• What is the level of COVID-19 activity in my region?
• Am I or is anyone in my close circle (in the same household, for example) at a higher risk of serious illness if they contract COVID-19?
Depending on the factors above and your comfort level, you may choose to maintain social distancing to the extent possible and consider wearing a mask to reduce the risk.
Although we’re all excited about returning to the activities we enjoyed before the pandemic, we must stay vigilant and do our part to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Please stay safe and healthy as we continue moving forward.