Follow Henry’s solid guidelines

Dear Editor:

The time for people to argue about the novel coronavirus is past. In Kelowna, the gates were wide open at the start of July and the virus is here to stay.

We have to assume it is everywhere and we are the only ones who can protect ourselves. No government can do that for you.

We need to follow the solid guidelines Dr. Bonnie Henry has provided. Have a mask available for all indoor activities and any outdoor ones where you feel you may lose control of distancing.

Do it because you care.

The best thing for your immune system is regular fresh air and sunshine and exercise when you can. This is readily available in the Okanagan.

— Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds frequently and especially when handling food.

—Eat a rainbow of fresh unprocessed foods

—Practise good sleep hygiene. Whatever you must do get a good nights sleep. Your brain needs it.

Change and disinfect linens in the bathroom and kitchen every day. Wipe down doorknobs and light switches regularly.

These are simple things that are common sense but often forgot in today’s busy world.

Children learn from their parents. They should be going out now with a parent or guardian modelling the above. The worries most parents have are because they won’t be there to make sure their children are protected.

Please make August the month where the children in your care learn to care for themselves while this virus is in our community.

Some things have changed. However when you change with the new environment and allow time for distanced line ups and time between appointments life begins to feel better. Let’s be grateful that so far we haven’t had the forest fires we had in the past few years. Be grateful the air is clean this year, so far

I am a retired healthcare worker who learned these things from personal life experience.

There is no need to fear this virus. Be kind, Be calm and Keep safe.

Sandy Kavanagh,

Kelowna