A Squamish woman who has tested positive for COVID-19 says the virus needs to be taken seriously, but there is no need for a mass panic.
In a social media post, the woman said she was coming forward with the news of her diagnoses to bring some peace of mind to Squamish.
It’s been five days since she was diagnosed and is on the mend with only weak symptoms left. She says there has been a tremendous outpouring of support from her friends in the community.
“I strongly believe that our community will look out for each other as I have seen time and again. If the virus continues to spread, then hopefully early cases like myself will have immunity and be able to return the favour of care to the community,” she said.
The woman travelled outside of the region on Friday and was exposed to someone with flu-like symptoms. She developed symptoms on Tuesday morning, staring with fatigue and aches.
She had been in self-isolation since Tuesday afternoon before developing mild fever and cough. She was tested on Wednesday and received a positive result on Thursday.
Her family is in isolation with her and remains asymptomatic, she adds.
“Hopefully, my transparency sheds light on the fact that the virus is now close to home and should be taken seriously, but that doesn’t need to be a cause of mass panic,” she said.
“Be smart about following government precautions and trust that we have each other’s back.”
The woman says she has no interest in speaking to media and asks for privacy.