I’ve been pondering for a while how to approach the next post. Writing about anything other than COVID-19 right now seems frivolous so here’s an update from one human and their little place on the blue dot.
At the end of February, I started stocking my pantry. Because I buy groceries every few days and typically only have a week’s worth of food in the apartment, it made sense to start buying things to provide a back-up just in case anything. At the same time, I came out of my typical news fast and tried to stay up to date with what people I respected were saying online and on podcasts. Last week, I did necessary quarterly in-branch banking rather than waiting for the end of the month.
I tend to germ-phobia—compulsive hand-washing and not touching my face are my norm. Social Distancing? For me, a retired solo introvert, it’s hardly a stretch. Only since my move in December was I finally taking advantage of social opportunities again. Now I just go back to a typical day at home—reading, writing, puzzling, communicating, meditating, cooking, going out for a walk or hike with friends. Depending on how many months this lasts, I may join a streaming service like Netflix again. Before that, there are the income tax returns to do. Yes, I know how lucky I am. Right now my only worry is for the elders.
Since I moved back to Nova Scotia in 2017, the healthcare crisis is the main fodder for our newspaper editorials. Yes, we have universal healthcare. But at least 5% of the population is without a family doctor. The medical facilities are at or above capacity. There are rolling blackouts for ERs due to lack of staff. And because the long-term care facilities are full, there are people taking up acute beds in the hospitals when they should be in a nursing home.
More numbers: based on the last census, the provincial population is ~923,598*. 20% of the population (~183,820*) is over 65 years old. The province has ~240 ventilators (more have been ordered). I’m data-driven. Hence my concern.
Last Sunday (March 15th), we became the last province to have confirmed cases (3) of the virus. Since then, I have been glad to see the necessary lockdowns, closures, and restrictions. There are provincial (and federal) press conferences daily and information is well communicated there and in the news. We’re at 12 cases as of today. March 15th seems weeks ago already and it’s early days.
The apartment building residents are communicating so we can help neighboUrs who need assistance getting supplies. At least the daylight is longer. At least there will be warmer weather here soon. At least it’s almost spring.
You know all the things you need to do now to flatten the curve. Believe in science and facts. Listen to medical professionals. If I can offer something it’s this: Don’t assume everyone is on social media (I’m not). Check-in with your family and friends. Write an email. Send a text. Set up a virtual call. Please connect. And please take care.
*2016 Census Data.
Related links:
- 2016 Census data for Nova Scotia (SOURCE: Statistics Canada).
- Province looks for more ventilators ahead of potential COVID-19 spread (SOURCE: CBC News).
- waitlist (post #87)
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