Letter to the editor: Keep following the covid-19 rules

The year 2020 was a year of daunting challenge. Covid-19 created significant negative impacts on all aspects of life. We’ve all been touched in one way or another by this virus. We’ve mourned the loss of friends and family, we’ve lost income, we’ve lost touch with those we love. 2020 wasn’t the year that we had planned or hoped for.

Yet 2021 has dawned, bringing with it new hope for a brighter tomorrow. There is optimism as the covid-19 vaccine becomes more widely available. We look forward to the time when we can resume our typical activities safely — going to school and work, traveling, eating in restaurants, and at some point, not wearing a mask.

But we are not there quite yet. We still have miles to go before we’re able to resume activities as we know them. So, as we step forward with anticipation, I implore you to:

• Continue to wear a mask when outside of your own home.

• Maintain social distancing.

• Avoid crowds indoors and outdoors.

• Practice hand hygiene — often.

When you have the opportunity to receive the vaccine, get it. I did. If you haven’t had a flu vaccine, get one.

Don’t avoid other preventive health care measures. Health care systems are prepared to care for you safely.

Finally, share. Share with your neighbors who are hungry and cold. Share your well wishes with your friends who are lonely. Share you time with those who need help.

We are getting through this together. And we will come out on the other side. Together.

Dr. Carol Fox

Unity