Sneezes And Diseases

This winter could be hell. 

For future posterity, we're in the middle of a global pandemic. Canada has been doing better than some, and British Columbia is doing particularly well. 

Claire and I have been very cautious this entire pandemic. We've worn masks and limited contact with people outside our bubble, and our kids wear their masks in the few stores we let them visit. We haven't had friends visit in our home since March. Social distancing has been difficult, but absolutely necessary.

Regardless, it's turning cold outside, and with the changing season comes the runny noses and coughs. That's exactly what Connor got last week, followed by Ada coming down with just a runny nose, much milder than her brothers, and Claire developed a cough. I've remained entirely symptom free. 

Despite being almost 100% certain it's nothing more than a head cold, we still choose to get Claire and the kids tested yesterday. Thanks to the wonderful staff at BC Children's Hospital, we were in and out in a flash, and while Claire was able to take a simple gargal test, the kids had to have a nasal swab. Ada took it like a trooper, but while Connor got very upset, the staff in the hospital were absolutely wonderful, very fast, professional and caring. 

Claire got her results last night, and the kids tests came back this afternoon. All negative. As expected, but still a relief. 

This isn't going to be the last sniffle we get, and so, it isn't going to be the last test we take. But we'll stay vigilant, stay observing all local recommendations, and stay wearing our masks. 

This winter could be hell.