Like many of you, I am happy to say goodbye to the last 12 months.
In December 2019, there were reports of a new virus emerging in Wuhan, China. I had never even heard of Wuhan before. In 12 short months that new virus, which causes COVID 19, has killed 1.8+ million people worldwide!
I am relieved that we have vaccines to add to the arsenal and am not surprised by the slow roll out. It is tough to vaccinate front line health care workers because of their schedules, shifts and overall workload. You don’t get to close a hospital to vaccinate staff!
I am worried about the new variants emerging and hope I am worrying for no reason. I think the only thing we can do is practice the 3 W’s: watch your distance, wear a mask and wash your hands. And get vaccinated as soon as your number is called.
My friend, JP, shared this article with me. It ranks the risks of various activities for COVID 19. The lowest risk activity is taking a walk outside, medium risk activities include getting your hair done and staying at a hotel, the highest risk are visiting your local bar and hanging out with a sick person.
I don’t want this to be a totally ‘down’ post as we ring in the new year. There is always room for gratitude and optimism as we step into 2021. From a public health perspective:
- Influenza activity is way down – our COVID prevention measures work to prevent the flu too. And lots of people got vaccinated this year. Yay!
- While it is slow going right now, we do have vaccines and they are getting into people most at risk.
- Barring some craziness on January 6th, we should have a new administration staffed with competent public health leaders to help us all navigate the uncertain path forward.
- While there is still a lot to learn, we know way more about coronavirus than we did 12 months ago!
- We still have (a newly vaccinated) Anthony Fauci!
I am also grateful for many things in my life, including my husband, family, friends, ZOOM, my health (fingers crossed), state and local public health workers, and the people who take time out of their day to read my blog!
Happy New Year to all of you.
I am off to take a walk outside, the lowest risk activity for COVID exposure and the one that keeps me sane!
As we roll into 2021, stay safe, stay healthy and keep moving!
I will be back on Monday.
Allene
Travels with Allene 