So, we all thought that by summer 2022, would be closer to the light at the end of the tunnel regarding COVID. Instead the train has moved backwards towards the darker end, as new and more aggressive  and contagious variants emerge. People being reinfected with the virus more than once a month is more common now than it was before. Not to mention the emergence of another virus Monkey Pox. Which, although it is not new, it is spreading and behaving in a way that it has not in the past. And rapidly so.

The other issue of concern of course is that RAT tests are now reporting multiple false negative results for individuals who are infected, giving them a false sense of security and allowing them to further spread COVID to others. Further, PCR tests are no longer free/financially available to people as they were before. This means people are more hesitant to test despite being ill.

COVID is now also leaving lingering and severe health issues despite a “mild” case, months after an infection. And not only things such as lack of taste and smell but severe neurological, physical and mental issues.  Some individuals are reporting having brain fog, pain when moving, gastrointestinal issues, hair loss, as well as eyesight. This should not be ignored. And of course, another cause of concern is multiple COVID infections in the same month have become more common. And the more an individual is infected, the bigger the risk with each COVID infection.

Monkey Pox has also been making its rounds aggressively. The rate and speed at which it is spreading is unprecedented. Currently over 6,000 cases world wide and counting. The number of course is probably larger than what is being reported. 

I plead with CDC and other health officials to consider reinstating mask mandates and perhaps consider even a shorter or temporary lockdown to give those equipped, time to better understand these viruses, slow down the spread, protect families, children, the elderly. And prevent hospitals from becoming overwhelmed and healthcare workers to suffer under the strain. 

Essentially we are now faced with two viruses/pandemics at once. Viruses that have gained the upper hand as a result of officials not caring or downplaying the dangers of these infections and not taking action. Hospitalizations will rise in the upcoming weeks with no doubt a majority of them being one of these two viruses. They are behaving in a way they had not before. A temporary lockdown / stay at home order could be the most prudent way to protect people.