Florida’s COVID-19 Situation
In December, I provided a “Florida” update as to how it was managing the COVID curse. All in all, its infection numbers were down, and it seemed everything was looking rosy. The Canada/US border had been opened, and heading south for some R & R was now Snowbirds’ plan of action. I provided one brief caveat: whether the “Omicron virus” would throw a wrench into the works. See December article: The Florida Update December 2021
The Disruption Caused by Omicron
Well, the Omicron virus certainly did just that. It appears to be not as severe or deadly a virus strain as its Delta cousin. It has, though, wreaked havoc—causing massive infections, flight cancellations, business absenteeism, and an increase in hospitalizations. Florida, again, has become one of the worst states in North America for getting sick.
Healthcare Capacity in Florida
Florida is somewhat fortunate to have lots of hospitals. In fact, compared to Ontario, Canada, they have a plethora of places you can go for medical help. Regardless of the increase in infections, those hospitalized with COVID presently take up only 10% of the ICU beds. Of the COVID patients hospitalized in ICU, 67.52% had not been vaccinated, and an additional 10% had only one shot. The problem now, though, is how many people are testing positive—this leads to the fact they can’t work, go to school, or, in general, need to hibernate until they are infection-free.
Ontario’s Preparedness and Lockdown Measures
As for Ontario, Canada—Premier Ford has prepared for the worst. Ontario does not have a plethora of hospitals compared to Florida, and since Omicron is so contagious, hospitals can be quickly over-taxed. The lockdown, therefore, is underway yet again. Lastly, the Canadian Federal Government has continued its “no travel” advisories for literally the entire world. Lots of bad news for Snowbirds!
Lots of Bad News for Snowbirds! The COVID Curse
Hope for the Future
Can there possibly be any good news? If the “Oh My” virus is proven to be less severe and less deadly, this wave could be over very quickly; we could, therefore, expect the travel advisories to be lifted by the end of February. Keep your fingers crossed.
Helping Snowbirds Injured Across North America
For over 40 years, we’ve been helping Canadians involved in car accidents and other personal injury incidents while traveling in the United States. Each year, millions of snowbirds-residents from Canada (and the northern U.S.A) – head south to escape the cold. Unfortunately, accidents happen. When they do we are here to help navigate the legal and insurance challenges that arise.
Cross Border Accidents and claims are very complicated!
Call the Free Snowbird Helpline 1-800-587-6992
Or Email – snowbirdaccidents@yahoo.com,
Or https://snowbirdaccidents.com/contact/
