This article by four Australian pediatricians summarizes what we know about the Delta variant and schools.

We are in the midst of a fourth wave driven by the Delta variant. This July 5 article from Michael Toole, Professor of International Health at the Burnet Institute in Australia, summarizes what we know about this variant.

RNAO is considering the question of a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine. The following article from Sheena Cruickshank reflects our current thinking on the matter. Basically, we believe it is too early to launch a vaccine booster program in Canada, except for immunodeficient persons and adults 80 years and older.

The Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO) says a new temporary tool is needed in the fight against COVID-19: Vaccine passports.

With only one month left until schools reopen in Ontario, the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO) is pleased the provincial government’s plan includes mandatory indoor masking for students in grades one through 12 and improving ventilation systems. These measures meet some of RNAO’s long-standing recommendations to Premier Ford, including those in the association’s July 28 open letter. “The measures are essential to minimize the impact of a fourth wave of COVID-19 as Ontario opens school doors to students and staff,” says RNAO CEO Dr. Doris Grinspun.

I am absolutely exhausted with this relentless pandemic. You are too. But, as much as we don’t like it, we must confront the fourth wave. Daily case numbers in Ontario are increasing (218 today) with a reproduction value that remains above 1. The fourth wave of the pandemic driven by the highly transmissible Delta variant is here. RNAO has been listening to the experts and warning about this for weeks.

In July, RNAO launched its #FullyVaccinated campaign to encourage Ontarians to get both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. RNAO also spoke out about vaccine hesitancy, #MandatoryVaccination for healthcare and education workers, a safe reopening plan for schools as well as nurse understaffing.

I am absolutely exhausted with this relentless pandemic. You are too. But, as much as we don’t like it, we must confront the fourth wave.