Thought of the Day - February 9 2022 - Polarization Worries

It has always been the case that states across the US have implemented dramatically different policies concerning the handling of COVID. Now it is amazing to see the divergence of approaches across Europe.

Austria set into law that COVID vaccines are compulsory for all adults. Starting last weekend fines for non-compliance can be up to €3,600. In contrast at the end of January Denmark ended all restrictions, with authorities stating that COVID-19 was no longer a "socially critical disease". I guess part of the difference in approach may be driven by the fact that Austria has had more than double the number of deaths per capita compared to Denmark.

Now flip over to Canada.

Yesterday Alberta dropped its vaccine passport program, as a first step in winding down COVID restrictions, other than in care settings. Saskatchewan will also be dropping passport use next Monday and winding down other restrictions by the end of the month. "This policy has run its course," said Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe. Even Quebec has backed away from its plans to fine the unvaccinated and says they will wind down COVID restrictions as of mid-March. In these provinces businesses that decided to require vaccination will no longer have a legal standing.

In contrast, there has been nothing new from the Federal Government in spite of the Trucker-led protests. Or should I say there has been nothing announced just to spite the protests?

Hopefully, we can move forward together here in Canada. The vaccine mandates have proven to be very divisive, let's hope we do not bring regional differences into this as well.

It is still my hope, come spring, that we can put this pandemic behind us ( Thought of the Day - January 21 2022 - My Thoughts on Our 2022 Spring Reset ).

Cheers

Cliff