We can reduce the threat of COVID-19 without more lockdowns
Several headlines over the past two weeks have declared that we are in a sixth wave of COVID-19. Chief Public Health Officer Theresa Tam has advised Canadians to expect subsequent surges in the fall and the winter. While hopeful these could be avoided, Dr. Tam warned of the potential for new variants to require reintroduction of social restrictions.
In part, thanks to the natural ventilation of the outdoors, we’ve experienced two summers of reprieve from pandemic restrictions. Let’s double down on this proven success and continue to facilitate outdoor patios and walkable streets. For two years, we’ve stayed home from work or school when sick, protecting others from infection. We should entrench this social norm; including legislating paid sick days so no worker ever has to choose between paying the bills and protecting vulnerable colleagues, co-workers or families.