Last week, Idaho moved up to Stage 3, bringing cheers and excitement from business owners and college students alike. Although this phase is crucial and beneficial for small businesses to remain open, we must not forget that we are still in a global pandemic. This pandemic will not end simply because we “are over it,” and because places are slowly opening back up.
When Idaho moved up and down COVID Stages in the past, many abandoned all protocols and cautions. That same reckless behavior is the reason why we have fluctuated through stages so heavily.
There is nothing gained with moving forwards with COVID protocols if we must move back again within a month to rising cases. I fully understand that people are desperate to get back to normal and embrace the activities they’ve missed, but their overexcitement could prove costly to everyone in the long run.
Throughout this pandemic, we are going to have to accept that going back to “normal” will never fully be possible. COVID will stay around, it is up to us to vaccinate and take care of those most vulnerable around us, to curve the death rate.
Vaccine distribution is underway, but we must stay vigilant and safe. Going overboard with activities and social events will prove to be nothing but destructive in this process.
I hope everyone holds the safety of others in the back of their minds. Continue ordering from local restaurants, supporting small businesses and donating to extra-curricular; however, do not forget that these same organizations will struggle more if they are once again forced to close within a week due to people’s irresponsibility.
Keep others safe this winter and don’t sacrifice our livelihoods for your holiday parties and unnecessary events. Remain vigilant during the next few months, as we slowly move towards a future that allows us to enjoy the activities and celebrations of the past.
Dani Moore can be reached at [email protected].