I’ve read some of the most ridiculous things from anti-maskers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Like how wearing a mask will give you lung cancer due to “oxygen deficiency.” Or that “God doesn’t wanting you breathing your poisoned air.”
Those views are, of course, baloney and downright dangerous.
The latest is more of the laughable variety. A friend and colleague who runs a newspaper says that anti-maskers have been requested that he call them “pro-breathers” in all future articles.
Um, no.
That’s not going to happen. It’s a nice try to rebrand because the term “anti-maskers” is usually met with derision (although not as much derision as I’d like) by people who can think for themselves.
These folks have also tried to get the “hugs over masks” phrase going on social media because, after all, who doesn’t love hugs. I do, but I’m willing to wait until this is over before I will be hugging my mommy and daughter.
I’m willing to wait because things are bad right now.
There are 33,894 cases of COVID-19 in B.C. after health officials announced 656 new cases Tuesday.
Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry reports that there have been 140 new cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, 408 in the Fraser Health region, 10 in the Island Health region, 83 in the Interior Health region, 15 in the Northern Health region and no new cases of people who reside outside of Canada
There have been 16 new COVID-19 related deaths, for a total of 457 deaths in British Columbia.
“Let’s be resilient in face of this surge,” Henry said Tuesday. “United and together, let’s make an impact today through our own personal actions.
“Without exception, follow the provincial health officer's orders in place. Remember that events, which refer to anything that gathers people together - whether on a one-time, regular or irregular basis - are not allowed for now. This includes religious, cultural or community events. Do not gather at home with anyone other than your household or core bubble.
“Let’s make today a day to slow community transmission and continue to protect everyone in our province.”
That includes wearing a mask. I’m pro-breathing too, but that means avoiding COVID-19.
Follow Chris Campbell on Twitter @shinebox44.
