WOW! We survived sixteen months of isolation and the threat of Covid-19 virus, but we are in the Recovery Room! We had losses, plenty of them; some did not return with us. Some are experiencing lingering effects of the Covid-19 infection.
Who do we thank for this new opportunity to enjoy life again, like before? Thanks to scientists, doctors, nurses, public health officials, pharmacies, and lab technicians, thanks to the front-line workers of all stripes, thanks to essential workers. It was a team effort!
Thanks to those who lined up for hours to get the vaccinations needed to make a huge difference in the outcome, so far. As I write, more than 79% of adults in Ontario, aged 18 plus, have received at least one vaccine dose and 55% are fully vaccinated.
Global News reports this week that 0.4% of total confirmed Ontario cases of Covid-19 occurred in people who were fully immunized. The proportion of cases increased in older individuals and those 80 and older had the highest number of cases. Reports are coming out that patients requiring hospitalization now for Covid-19 are the unvaccinated.
Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. We are not out of danger until our neighbour is too.
In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Luke 10: 27, Jesus says “Love your neighbour as yourself.” In Leviticus 19: 16 the law commands “Do not do anything that endangers your neighbour’s life. I am the Lord.”
Does our neighbour need encouragement or assistance to receive their Covid-19 vaccines too? The team now includes trusted family doctors and pharmacists to overcome vaccine hesitancy. It also includes us too to encourage our neighbour.
The first place to start is www.Ontario.ca/book-vaccine/ or vaccination information line 1 888 999 6488. That website also discusses safety of vaccines. Your local hospital and your local pharmacy can direct you to online sites to register for a vaccination. Another valuable source is www.vaccinehunters.ca for nearby resources of vaccines.
Some people are hesitant to receive a vaccine for a number of reasons. There may be a language barrier, an access barrier, transportation barrier, or lack of workplace time off to access vaccines. There may be fears of side effects of vaccines and there is erroneous information on social media. Your family doctor will help you make a decision that is best for you.
The parish nurse, Nancy Truscott, would be pleased to assist with your access to vaccines. Please leave a message at 416 961 8116 x 228 or email parishnurse@stpaulsbloor.org.
