While the turbulence of BC’s mass vaccination roll out continues to be felt across the province, today’s Middle serves as a reminder to try and focus not on minutiae, but the endgame: a post-pandemic “new normal” coming to BC this summer.
One year ago, with no idea whether there would even be a vaccine, there was worry this nightmare might last for years. YEARS.
Given a nothing short of miraculous scientific discovery and development of effective vaccines, we find ourselves in incredibly fortunate circumstances.
Yes, fortunate. We are really – really – lucky.
Headlines about procurement, supply, delay, roll out – all stressful distractions. If you’re feeling anxiety and the overwhelming ‘done-ness’ of COVID, please hear this: the single most important message is that there will be enough vaccine in BC for every person living here. You will get vaccinated, if you want to. (I sure hope you want to)
Widespread immunity is the goal. That is what’s happening. Is it happening as quickly as one might wish? Nope. Yes, the waiting is the hardest part. Frustrating - no question. What can be done by you and me? Nadda.
Let’s take a deep breath and acknowledge that this will take time.
My Middle this week is quite simple, it’s a blunt reminder to take a breath and be mindful that everyone in BC will get a shot.
Miss your window of eligibility? You can go in the next one. Once your age is called, you can book at your leisure. And, for example, if your spouse or partner isn’t in your age range and you want to go together, you can. Simply wait until you both qualify and book.
It was astounding on Monday to hear Dr. Henry speaking of hope and optimism. Possibly easing restrictions in the coming weeks, a slow and steady plan to fully re-open the economy, once more seeing our social connections. College and university leaders had been informed to expect to return to full in-person instruction this fall, and prepare for that.
This is all very, very good news.
Sure, it is tough to celebrate while still being asked to stay home. But with the promise of brighter days on the horizon, it’s a bit easier to follow health protocols just a little longer — in the name of saving lives.
A year in, surely holding tight for a few more weeks is doable.
Put on some positive perspective for the coming weeks ‘til freedom. Take stock of what this year has taught our society.
No, I’m not Pollyanna. The Pfizer, Moderna and AstraZeneca vaccines are absolute scientific miracles – and represent real hope. All the clickbait headlines and social media games of telephone don’t muddy the fact that all three vaccines are proven to protect from serious illness, hospitalization, and death.
Every vaccine expert, emerging diseases professor, and epidemiologist I’ve had the opportunity to interview has reiterated how zero COVID-19 deaths were recorded in all three clinical trials. Zero.
That’s really the most important need-to-know. Spread the word: the best vaccine for you is the one offered to you first. Take the shot.
Yes, it’s crazy right now trying to call booking centres in the various health regions. Yes, it’s horrible that Vancouver Coastal Health was only able to book an anemic 369 appointments on Day 1 of the rollout – and hopefully that will get fixed quickly.
As we navigate into this final phase of COVID-19 , staying informed is key. This is where #inthistogether means the most.
Jody Vance is a born and raised Vancouverite who’s spent 30 years in both local and national media. The first woman in the history of Canadian TV to host her own sports show in primetime, since 2011 she’s been working in both TV and radio covering news and current affairs.
SWIM ON:
- Last week, Jody Vance talked about the debate about policing, and what more public accountability will look like.
- BC's "other" public health crisis is decidedly not getting any better. Katy Merrifield led the previous provincial government's response to the opioid epidemic, and has some advice for her successors.
- Rob Shaw also urged Dr. Bonnie Henry's critics to stand down, and maintain perspective.
