Little visits east Idaho, discusses COVID-19, legislature and the election
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IDAHO FALLS — Idaho Governor Brad Little stopped in Idaho Falls Friday morning on his statewide tour to talk with local reporters.
The status of the COVID-19 pandemic in Idaho comprised the bulk of Little’s message and came just days after the first vaccines for the coronavirus were given to front line healthcare workers.
“The vaccine is here,” Little said. “There are people today in the hospitals … that are building antibodies that are going to be protected. That’s the ray of light at the end of it.”
Since March, Little has urged the public to take precautions against the virus that has infected 126,878 people in the Gem State, according to Idaho Department of Health and Welfare data. While most people recover from the disease, over 1,200 people statewide have died from the virus as of Friday, IDHW reports.
Public health officials have recommended that individuals practice social distancing, wear face coverings and wash hands to help prevent the spread of the virus. While local health districts have implemented mask mandates, many residents refuse to comply.
“It’s sad that people aren’t making that choice,” Little said. “If they’re exposing somebody else, they should make that choice to do the right thing.”
Little expressed if people follow guidelines for a few more months, the vaccine will help slow the spread and make it possible for the economy to stay open, keep kids in school and prevent an overload on the healthcare system. Little said it’s especially important with the holidays coming up.
“It’s in our DNA,” Little said. “If you choose to do the right thing, that aspect of loving thy neighbor is going to be promoted to a higher level.
You can watch all of Little’s remarks, including his comments on the upcoming legislative session and the 2020 Presidential Election, in the player above.