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By Fraser-Nicola MLA Jackie Tegart

Sound Off

SOUND OFF: Caring for your community through the COVID-19 crisis

Mar 27, 2020 | 2:31 PM

IN THE LAST FEW WEEKS, the impact and effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have increased dramatically. As infection numbers rise and government intervention increases, we must all now do our part to help flatten the curve and keep ourselves, our families and fellow British Columbians safe.

Now is the time to minimize any and all unnecessary physical contact. Physical distancing is our best defence. So stay at home except for essential trips, stay at least six feet (two meters) away from others wherever you can and wash your hands as frequently as possible.

I know that routines and lifestyle changes have been abrupt. This is especially challenging for seniors who are now required to stay away from their usual interactions. Same with children used to the socialization of school and the playground. So get your phone out, connect on FaceTime or Skype. Make a list of old friends and those people you always say you want to catch up with and do it. We are lucky to have the technology available to connect us socially even while we have to keep our physical distance, so please use it.

It is important to remember that the actions we are taking now are not only to protect ourselves — but also to protect those most vulnerable in our communities. That is why mandated self-isolation and physical distancing routines needs to be adhered to. Everyone needs to do their part. However, the lack of social interactions can take a toll on mental health. Be cognizant of the impact the lack of your daily routines and interactions are having. Be kind and make a vow to yourself to do your part and come out of this more compassionate, more understanding and more connected.

There will be much-changing information and fear in the next weeks, so having accurate and reliable information is paramount. That is why you should keep up-to-date with the latest recommendations from the provincial and federal health authorities, which can be found on the website of the BC Centre for Disease Control and during the daily briefings given by Health Minister Adrian Dix and Provincial Health Officer Doctor Bonnie Henry. This link connects to the most up-to-date information being released by the Government of BC: www.gov.bc.ca/covid19

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I know there are many people already struggling with financial uncertainty and the turndown of numerous sectors all at once. This will be a challenging time, but I am pleased to see British Columbians acting swiftly and accordingly in order to help slow the spread of the virus. This week, financial aid packages brought forward by the federal and provincial governments that will help people get through the next months. Why they are by no means silver bullet solutions and will not buffer everyone from struggle, they are a start and will be incredibly helpful to the hundreds of thousands of British Columbia affected by this sudden economic turndown.

For those that can, support your local businesses that are struggling to stay afloat. Order takeout from your favourite restaurant; buy gift cards with the intention to use them in the future. Donate goods if possible. Support food banks and other charitable organizations that are under increased pressure, as their services are needed more and more. This is a time to create a social connection at a physical distance. Together we must all do our part. Remember that we are all in this together, and the success of our individual actions determines the success of all of us.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of CFJC Today or the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group.