Just when you thought things were getting back to normal, several new types of COVID-19 are making themselves known. These variants are not as deadly, but they do spread more quickly than the original and can still put you in the hospital. If you’re one of the higher risk individuals, they can still result in death.
That is hard news, especially in summer, when people want to get back to cookouts, family visits, concerts, and other outings. But it is still important to pay attention. COVID-19 has not gone away. It is still here in our communities. And even when a virus seems milder, it can still be serious for people who are older, have health problems, or have weakened immune systems.
These new variants are actually 5 new subversions of the Omicron virus, a form of COVID-19 that is very adaptable. While the vaccinations you’ve had will offer some protection, it’s not as effective with some of the variants. Don’t let that stop you from getting vaccinated though. The vaccine does provide some immunity and you’ll have a better chance of surviving the infection if you’ve been vaccinated. A vaccine specifically for Omicron should be available this fall in booster form.
That means the vaccine still matters, even if it is not a perfect shield. Think of it like a seat belt. It may not stop every injury, but it can still lower the risk of the worst harm. If you are due for a vaccine or booster, talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or local health provider about what is right for you. If you have questions about how to get to an appointment, how to read vaccine information, or how to ask for an accommodation, DNL can help. Our services are free, and you can call us at (616) 396-5326.
You can get these Omicron variants more than once. The level of the virus in Ottawa and Allegan Counties is currently low, but that could change at any time. The variants are in our counties, and we need to keep that in mind as we continue to enjoy summer activities.
That is why it helps to keep some basic habits in place, even when life feels more open. Small steps can still make a big difference. If you are going to a crowded place, think ahead about ways to lower your risk. If you are visiting with people who are more likely to get very sick, it may make sense to be extra careful for a few days before you go. These choices do not have to stop you from living your life. They just give you more control.
COVID-19 is not going away and just because you’ve had it before doesn’t mean you won’t get it again. If you contract the virus, you may be hospitalized or end up with long-COVID. Neither prospect is desirable.
Long-COVID can make daily life harder in many ways. Some people feel tired for a long time. Some have trouble thinking clearly or getting back to their usual routine. Others may have breathing problems or other lasting health issues. That is one more reason to take this virus seriously, even if others around you seem to be moving on from it.
COVID may leave us having to adapt similar to how we do with influenza. Those of us who are elderly, very young, or have compromised immune systems may need to be vaccinated against whatever strain is current each year. We know what to do to withstand this disease. Avoid touching your face. Wash your hands often using soap and water or a hand sanitizer of 60% alcohol or more. Avoid large crowds. Keep your windows and doors open at work to keep air moving though. Maintain a distance of 6 feet or more between yourself and others when out in public. You know the routine! Stay healthy; stay safe.
There are also a few simple ways to make those steps easier in real life:
- Keep hand sanitizer in your bag, car, or near the door so it is easy to use.
- If you must be indoors with other people, choose a spot with more space when you can.
- When the weather allows, open windows or doors to help air move through a room.
- Plan ahead for errands so you can limit the number of stops you make.
- If you do not feel well, stay home and rest when possible.
- Ask someone you trust to help you with shopping, rides, or other tasks if being out in public is hard for you.
For people with disabilities, planning ahead can make a big difference. If a place is crowded, noisy, or hard to get into, the risk is not only about COVID. It can also be about access. A mask may be hard to use with certain communication needs. A long wait may be hard if you use a wheelchair or need to sit often. Some people may need more time, more space, or support from another person. It is okay to think about these needs ahead of time and make a plan that works for you.
If you are a person with a disability and need help finding support, talking through options, or learning about your rights, Disability Network Lakeshore is here for you. We are a nonprofit Center for Independent Living serving people with disabilities in Ottawa and Allegan counties, Michigan. Our services are free. We help people build independence, find resources, and work through barriers that get in the way of daily life. You can reach us at (616) 396-5326 or visit us at 442 Century Lane, Holland, MI 49423.
Our World still has barriers for people with disabilities.
Whether you're an individual or a company, searching for disability resources is discouraging and frustrating. And when you don't have the right tools, individuals and communities suffer. Wouldn't you like to live in an inclusive community where everyone can participate, contribute, and belong?
That question matters here too, because public health is part of access. When a virus spreads, the impact is not the same for everyone. Some people can move through their day with only a few changes. Others need more support to stay safe. Inclusive communities think about both health and access at the same time.
The right resources are hard to find. We get it.
We understand how it feels to struggle to fully participate in an inaccessible community, which is why we help people find and use disability resources.
Sometimes that means helping someone learn where to turn for support. Sometimes it means talking through a problem step by step. Sometimes it means helping a person think about what they need to stay safe while still doing the things that matter to them. That is part of independent living. It is not about doing everything alone. It is about having choice, control, and the right support.
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