Leadville and Lake County: Stay the Course with COVID Prevention

A year ago, coronavirus was not a household word. Face masks were for medical professionals. The Broncos played to a packed and cheering stadium full of people. Today, nearly a quarter million Coloradans have tested positive with COVID-19 and more than 3,000 have died.

And many people around the world are experiencing what is known as Pandemic Fatigue, a complex set of emotions that may include boredom, loneliness, sadness, frustration, anxiety, fear, anger and resentment. These emotions are largely triggered by the loss of typical activities and former social interactions.

At St. Vincent Health, we both acknowledge that Pandemic Fatigue is real, and we implore you to stay the course and stay vigilant in the fight against infection spread. Bottom line is that in doing so, you have the potential to save the lives of elderly, those with weakened immune systems, and other at-risk friends and neighbors.

And though we have all heard it countless times, science upholds that the best individual strategy is to wash hands frequently, wear a facial covering or mask to prevent the spread of airborne droplets, and to keep six feet of distance between yourself and others outside of your immediate household.

We acknowledge that protocols around COVID-19 and preventing its spread are often complex. On our website we’ve posted instructions that clarify what to do in a variety of situations: For those awaiting test results, how to manage a positive result, what to do in the event of a negative test (while still symptomatic), and how to manage exposure to a positive case.

Finally, if you or someone you know needs help, Solvista Health is offering free, confidential COVID-19 counseling, resources and support for anyone experiencing stress and burnout from the pandemic. Find out more at their web page or call 719-275-2351 and ask for the Colorado Spirit Support Program.

There will be a day when we talk about COVID-19 as a thing of the past. We will get through this. Together.