The Decibel What you need to know about COVID-19 this fall
Sep 16, 2025
André Picard, a health reporter and columnist for The Globe and Mail, sheds light on the current surge in COVID-19 cases in Canada. He discusses the ongoing public reluctance to engage with the pandemic, despite rising infection rates. The conversation delves into the complexities of testing and reporting, the impact on mental health, and the influential role of politics in managing public perception. Picard emphasizes the importance of maintaining vigilance, especially as colder months approach and recommendations for vaccinations evolve.
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Long COVID Remains Uncertain
- Long COVID affects millions but remains poorly understood with many unknowns.
- Many recover but the permanent disability rate is unclear and concerning.
Outbreaks Concentrated In Care Settings
- Recent surveillance shows COVID infections and outbreaks continue, especially in long-term care.
- About 300 people were hospitalized and many outbreaks remain in nursing homes and hospitals.
Cases Low Versus Peak Waves
- Current case counts are tiny compared with peak Omicron and earlier waves.
- High past infection levels mean transmission remains but at much lower national scale now.