THUNDER BAY – Canada’s health minister says new COVID-19 modelling shows Canadians should expect the new normal to remain in place for quite some time.
While some areas of the country have come through the pandemic relatively unscathed, the public must stay vigilant to lessen the damage of a potential second wave, which is all but inevitable, Patty Hajdu said on Thursday, reached by phone in Ottawa.
“I think we’re all going to have to realize that some of the aspects that we’ve been learning to protect ourselves and our families, these changes in our lives are going to stay with us for a while,” Hajdu said. “I don’t think we’re going to be looking forward to large gatherings any time soon. I think those are kind of things we’re going to have to let go of for a while, regardless of where you live.”
This probably means no big-scale concerts and most sporting events contested with limited or no fans in the stands.
In the long run, it’s a small price to pay to keep COVID-19 at bay, a virus that could result in the death of 9,400 Canadians by June 15, according to the modelling projections released on Thursday by the federal government.
In addition to continued physical distancing, mask wearing and frequent hand-washing, there’s going to be need for additional caution in the workplace, especially when there is a large number in a smaller area, Hajdu said.
More and more businesses are being allowed to reopen, and Ontario Premier Doug Ford has hinted the province might be ready to move onto Phase 2 of its reopening strategy, despite the fact Ontario and Quebec now combine to account for about 90 per cent of the country’s new cases.
Not surprisingly, some segments of society are harder hit than others.
“COVID-19 is exposing some of the really ugly cracks in our society,” Hajdu said.
“Places where people are often forced to live in very congregate settings, likely because of income, or because of social exclusion. It reminds us as politicians at all levels that we’re going to have to be much more proactive at making sure people have safe and decent living conditions to reduce the risk of outbreaks.
Hajdu also touched on the recent protests that have spread across Canada in the wake of the death of American black man George Floyd, who was killed by a Minneapolis police officer, sparking protests across the United States and Canada.
She said she understands why people have taken to the streets and supports the public’s right to protest injustice and systemic racism.
On the other hand, with so many people gathered in close-knit fashion, there is a danger of a COVID-19 outbreak as a result.
A protest is planned for Thunder Bay starting at 3 p.m. on Friday.
“I think there are ways you can be safer when you’re thinking about protesting. Dr. (Theresa) Tam said it well. Instead of shouting, which will propel your droplets further, make sure you consider using a sign or using another way to show your expression or demonstrate your support,” Hajdu said, adding wearing a facemask is another important precaution she’s like to see protestors take.
Organizers should also remind participants to attempt to physical distance as much as possible.
