#KeepGoingBC: Getting to the light at the end of the tunnel

After months of eager anticipation, members of the general public are finally starting to receive the COVID-19 vaccination as BC’s immunization plan moves into our communities. This makes the light at the end of the tunnel seem closer than ever and instills a sense of hope that a return to normalcy is right around the corner. But it’s important to remember that while the end is near, it isn’t here yet. To get there British Columbians need to continue to maintain current safety measures such as wearing a mask, hand washing, and physically distancing – even after receiving the vaccine.

This week, Doctors of BC is launching its #KeepGoingBC campaign, which highlights the importance of maintaining current safety measures while the provincial vaccination campaign roll-outs across BC and until most British Columbians have been vaccinated. After more than a year, many – if not most – are likely feeling a normal amount of pandemic fatigue when it comes to taking precautions. The truth is your actions are making a difference and – in conjunction with the vaccine – are the answer to overcoming COVID-19.

But why is it important to maintain these precautions now and after you’re vaccinated? Put simply, until everyone is vaccinated we’re all still at risk. The vaccines are highly effective at preventing someone from getting a symptomatic case of COVID-19, especially one that leads to severe illness or even death, but it’s unclear yet how well they block the spread of the disease. It’s also unclear what level of protection they provide against new variant versions that are emerging.

We all want to reach the end, but to do so – and to do so quickly – we need to stay the course. So remember:

• Washing and drying your hands kills the virus, helping prevent you from spreading it to other surfaces and individuals.
• Masks shield you from spreading the disease to those around you.
• Physically distancing prevents the disease from spreading through physical contact and helps prevent community transmission.

Doctors of BC is proud of the work British Columbians have done to keep each other safe. We know it hasn’t been easy but we’re all in this together. And if we #KeepGoingBC, we’ll overcome COVID-19 and make it to the light at the end of the tunnel.

Click here for a list of Q’s & As on the COVID-19 vaccines and watch for updates on this campaign.