Moving Towards a Happy New Year

For many, 2020 has not been a great year. As we entered the new year, some 12 months back, it was soon apparent that the threat of Covid-19 was going to have dramatic and far-reaching repercussions. The truth is that it affected many people negatively. 

The pandemic has resulted in death, illness, isolation, and fear. Many people suffer from pandemic fatigue or burnout after living with the threat and stress of the disease. For many people, life has changed dramatically. 

Fortunately, it is not all doom and gloom. There are many positives and there is, to coin a cliché, light at the end of the tunnel. We have heard great news about the effectiveness of many vaccines that are already approved and starting to be distributed. 

There are many others in the pipelines and massive strides have been taken. 

More on that later, first...

Back to basics

We have been told, and rightly so, that there are several steps we can all take to slow and ultimately stop the spread of COVID-19. Despite the good news, it is as important now as it always has been to remain vigilant and not let our guard down. It is too soon. 

The steps needed to curb the pandemic are easy to adhere to and can be done by everyone. Indeed, had this been done correctly by all, the odds of the spread of the pandemic would have been far less rampant. 

As we have been told many times, we all need to:

Wash hands regularly 
Sanitize
Wear a mask in public
Maintain social distancing
Test if symptomatic
Isolate if infected

Nothing has changed just yet so these are all still relevant and recommended. For many, it has become second nature. Some people have, however, become complacent and slipped back into old habits, ignoring the protocols and advice. 

Those that follow procedures will reduce the risk to themselves as well as those they come into contact with. It just makes sense. 

Sanitizing

Another critical aspect of slowing and preventing the spread of COVID-19 is the effective sanitizing of public spaces. While there are still some restrictions in place, many public spaces and work areas are again open. It is essential that these areas are sanitized and disinfected with the correct methods and products. 

You need to stick to the professionals, those with the skills, equipment, and experience to do a quality job. Stat Sanitizing is a good example and they have helped to keep many areas safe and sanitized during these challenging times. 

One has to stick to those companies that have a proven track record and have the training and expertise to do it correctly. This is no time to be taking any chances. 

Regular and effective sanitizing is essential for work areas and public spaces. 

Vaccines

This is the really good news. The public and private sector have put a lot of time, money, and resources into developing vaccines. The results look positive and promising. Some have been approved and are already being rolled out and many are in the approval process. Testing, although it has been rushed, shows great potential. 

Other good news is that testing and other areas of COIVID-19 controls have improved. The hospitals have geared up, testing, tracking, and reporting have all improved and the systems to handle the pandemic are better than they were when we started out. 

Second wave

Sadly, we are not out of danger just yet. Many areas in the United States and other parts of the world are seeing a significant second wave of COVID-19 cases. It is no time to be complacent. In fact, we should be more vigilant than ever. 

New variant

Another emerging challenge is reports of a new variant of the virus. The concern is that this variant of the virus is even more contagious. It also appears to be more active with younger people. This is yet another sign that it is far too soon to ignore basic safety measures and correct sanitizing. 

The new variant has been noted in South Africa as well as the U.K. 

Back to the good news!

Despite the negative developments, most are confident that the future looks better. Yes, we have had a challenging year. It happened. What is encouraging is that individuals, companies, governments, and other organizations have stepped up and faced the challenge with promising results. 

While it is too early to pop the champagne, 2021 is sure to be a brighter and happier year. That is, provided we continue to act with discipline and exercise caution. 

Some of the leading thinkers, including vaccine stalwart, Bill Gates, the vaccines are looking encouraging. While change will not happen overnight the developments and progress are astounding. 

What is also important is that we celebrate life. While many have suffered and some have died, we need to continue and move forward. 

Thought human history, mankind has faced many challenges. We will come through this too. 

Some of the best minds in the world, the top companies, and many governments are behind a solution. Despite the difficulties we faced in 2020, we look forward to the new year. 

Stay safe and take care. And, happy new year!