the good doctor on: The Masked Man

Blog #13, Who is that masked man?

Hard to believe that on April 19th we first started this journey into the world of blogging. We were in the middle of Covid and all of its unfolding ramifications: closures of schools, businesses, churches, and all public gatherings. It was hard to not be a part of my son’s wedding in May, we will have to catch up on that later. The question is how much later? --- when a viable vaccine is ready for use, but unfortunately researchers estimate that could take at least another year or even longer. Thankfully, the municipal governments of Hamilton and Burlington have mandated masks for all public indoor spaces, starting July 20th. We have concluded that the mask, and proper social distancing, are our best defence against Covid. The College of Optometrists of Ontariohas required N95 masks for all optometrists since March. Great defence against an airborne pathogen.

We treat everyone who enters our clinic as though they have the virus, even if they pass our rigorous screening. The mask protects the people around us, preventing the virus that potentially escapes into the fine water droplets from our breath to enter the air other people take in. Adopting the mask has had its detractors, because face it, a mask is not comfortable or convenient (tried taking a sip of your morning coffee?) but as time has gone on the need for protective barriers has become clear. It is our best defence.

The latest research from the University of Toronto, involves testing a surface treatment for masks which can deactivate 99% of Covid 19 viruses. A biotech firm in Quebec developed it and U of T confirmed its effectiveness against the virus. A made-in-Canada solution that hopefully can protect our front line workers and bridge the gap until the magical vaccine arrives.

Let us not lose heart, but continue to protect each other as we gradually open up our businesses and our lives. We have come so far, and need to keep up the fight.

Thank you for doing your part and wearing a mask,

Til next week,

The Good Doctor, Dr. Mark Germain, Burlington Optometrist