After months of the same COVID-19 warnings, we know what we need to do: mask up, practice social distancing, wash our hands and avoid large groups. However, there is no denying that most of us are currently experiencing COVID-19 fatigue. It is evident in the rise of case numbers.
Hundreds of thousands of Americans have died from this virus, and the numbers continue to grow. Many of us have become numb to this information, allowing other news to distract us from the importance of this pandemic.
Don’t forget that every day, families are mourning loved ones who have died because of COVID-19. That’s why our health care professionals, who have witnessed this heartbreak firsthand, continue to passionately urge us to protect ourselves and our community.
A false sense of security has offset in thanks to the idea of “social bubbles.” As the pandemic has lingered and COVID-19 fatigue has set in, we have enlarged these bubbles. This exposes us to more risk, because some individuals are asymptomatic. In other words, we can come into contact with an infected person and not even know it. This is one way this virus is spreading so quickly through entire communities.
With the holiday season fast approaching, public health officials are very concerned that large gatherings of people will further increase already fast-growing case numbers.
Right now, this is unfortunately our reality. It is therefore important for everyone to act now and take a stand to help save lives in your community.
Please rethink your Thanksgiving plans this year:
- A smaller gathering with members of your immediate household is the safest option.
- If you feel strongly about including people outside your household, consider hosting a gathering outside.
COVID-19 can spread quickly when we gather together – we’ve seen this time and time again. In fact, Canada recently provided a cautionary tale for this holiday season. Despite new restrictions, their COVID-19 cases are currently skyrocketing due to the aftermath of their Thanksgiving holiday, which took place on the second Monday in October.
Think of the loved ones who sit around your Thanksgiving table each year. Observing the holiday differently this year will help ensure you can celebrate with them in the future.
Changing our traditions for Thanksgiving this year is an act of love and gratitude for those we care about. Let’s make their safety our top priority. And again, we must also continue to wear face masks, wash our hands and practice social distancing. All these safety measures have proven to be effective in stopping the spread of COVID-19.
We are all able to make a choice, and the time to make it is right now.
Stay updated on what Bon Secours is doing related to COVID-19.
