By Dr. Colleen Sholar
It’s that time of year again, the Clearwater County Fair and carnival are this week and I know it’s something many of us look forward to. Whether you are a 4H-er, an adult entering in an open class completion, attending the auctions, watching the Lumberjack show or simply going for the rides and food it’s sure to be a good time. That said, we need to remember to be safe and stay healthy.
Safety means different things at different ages. Whether it is keeping track of rambunctious kids, staying out of the path of the parade vehicles, or crossing the streets to and from the fair during this crowed time accidents can happen so be sure you plan extra time to get where you are going. The weather should be nice, not too hot, but remember to stay hydrated and sunscreen is recommended to avoid any burns. And, as always, have a designated driver if you are drinking alcohol.
Health. Oh how we all wish COVID-19 was gone. But reality is that it is not. So I would like to remind everyone to be kind and if you are sick, stay home. If you have COVID you can do a home test or come to the hospital during the week for testing. Those with COVID but minimal symptoms should isolate for 5 days then mask for another 5 days. If you had respiratory symptoms more than a cough e.g. you are short of breath, or were hospitalized then you should isolate through day 10. No one likes to be sick and some members of our community are certainly high risk for severe illness, so please be considerate and if you are sick don’t share your illness.
Clearwater Valley Health will have a booth at the fair this year, so be sure to come by and say hello to our community health workers. Enjoy the fair but remember to be safe and help our community stay healthy!