Group of people wearing masks while working at a table together in a cafe.

Caring for Ourselves

By Alex Lama, Commissioner

(Wednesday, September 1, 2021) – The resurgence of COVID-19 with its Delta variant is overrunning Florida hospitals as our state accounts for almost 18% of new cases in the U.S. per Johns Hopkins University. Many health experts warn that this new outbreak is the most severe so far and continues to spread at an alarming rate. Florida’s seven-day average for new cases is 21,681 as of August 16. These levels are greater than the outbreak we suffered during the summer of 2020.

With the high levels of the Delta variant taking a toll on the health and economy of our beloved community, it is imperative that we do all that is possible to combat this virus. We must follow common sense and logic to mitigate this situation. Wearing a mask indoors, avoiding crowds and keeping social distance are basic practices that we must have the discipline to follow in order to protect ourselves and our loved ones. And if you are not vaccinated and are considering getting it, please consult with your doctor first.

Unfortunately, this virus has been politicized to the detriment of our society. Politics sometimes has a strange way of interfering with common sense and logic so we must not fall into this trap. Remember that, ultimately, we are responsible for our own actions and welfare.

It is important that we have the fortitude to remain rational and use our better judgment to care for ourselves, our family, and our friends. It is for our own benefit.

Contact Commissioner Alex Lama at seat2@sibfl.net or 305.792.1752.