The magnitude of impact of COVID-19 on British Columbians cannot be overstated. It is by working together and supporting each other, that we will get through this.
And we all need to do our part. This is not only about protecting yourself, but protecting your family and our whole community.
To prevent the spread of COVID-19, it is important to wash your hands frequently with soap for a minimum of 20 seconds, avoid touching your face and maintain a physical distance of 1-2 metres from others. Stay home if you are sick or at high risk for serious illness. Your employer must waive the requirement for doctors notes or testing for people to stay home. If you are coming home from travelling abroad, you must self-isolate for 14 days.
Our Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry and Minister of Health Adrian Dix have been giving a clear message: we are in this together. It is extremely important for everyone follow their public health orders to protect British Columbians and slow the transmission of COVID-19.
It’s extremely important all British Columbians abide by the ordered restrictions on travel, mass gatherings and operations of bars and clubs, and the social distancing requirements including in restaurants.
This is how we will “flatten the curve” and reduce the transmission of COVID-19. It is how we’ll protect our healthcare system from being overwhelmed.
Look out for your neighbours. Buy only what you need for the week. Our food supply chains are secure, by panic-buying it makes it harder for those in need to find essential goods. Check on those who are self-isolating and seniors before you go to the store and see if they need help with groceries. But keep them and yourself protected by maintaining social distance.
To quote Dr. Bonnie Henry, “This is our time to be kind. To be calm. And to be safe.” Our community is strong and we are kind. It’s by working together and supporting each other, we will get through this.
Thanks, Rick