Take precautions but don’t stop living

COVID-19 is a serious virus and it is easily spread. However, many things cause death to Idahoans. For the year 2018, according to the Bureau of Vital Records and Health Statistics, 235 Idahoans died of influenza/pneumonia, 248 from motor vehicle accidents, 184 from alcoholic liver disease, and 418 from suicide. In 2020 to date, 87 Idahoans have died from COVID-19.

In my opinion, every life is precious, but the hard fact is that people die. Furthermore, one must look at all the implications of a statewide shutdown. Statistics are showing an increase in suicides, domestic violence and child abuse cases since the shutdown. How many more deaths happened due to “non emergency” medical procedures being delayed? How many people died of strokes, heart attacks, etc. because they were afraid to go to a hospital due to the COVID-19 scare? How many small businesses are permanently gone due to the shutdown? How many lives have been shattered or are gone due to the shutdown?

In past history, when a pandemic has swept across an area, people who are sick or particularly vulnerable are quarantined; not the entire population. I also believe that the shutdown due to COVID-19 was unconstitutional; certainly antithetical to the Bill of Rights Remember, in history, tyrants have gained control of populations by fear. Take heed.

Take precautions against the virus — wash your hands, stay home if you are sick or vulnerable, etc. But don’t stop living and enjoying your freedom.

JOY LILJESTAM

Bonners Ferry