To the Editor:

COVID numbers are falling. They are the lowest in Webster County since the pandemic began two years ago. Personally, I am ready to live my life, as it was, pre-COVID. With that being said, we know that COVID sneaks in and steals life from humans. I have friends and family that have lingering symptoms and after-effects from COVID. I have lost friends and family members from the terrible disease. We have all changed vastly since the inception of COVID. Although I personally was never infected with COVID, I chose to get vaccinated and boostered and chose for my kids to do the same. I did it not only for us, but for those around us who are not strong enough to fight COVID. I know this is a personal decision that should not be taken lightly, but I think it is one we should all consider, not only for ourselves but for those whose paths we cross each day.

Think of the strangers you come into contact with everyday. You do not know their health background, vaccination and/or COVID status. Being vaccinated offers you some safety against this. Yes, you could get a breakthrough case, there is no guarantee, but being vaccinated offers some protections and it sure beats suffering from COVID. In addition, how would you feel if you were the person spreading COVID to those you love or throughout your community and it impacted them negatively? How would you feel if your mild COVID case became a major health issue to someone you love?

COVID cases are falling, but different variants are arising. COVID does not care who you are or what you do, it is out to take as many victims as it can. I urge you to help stop the spread and be a part of the solution by getting vaccinated and/or boosted today.

Thank you,

Amber Barwin

Fort Dodge