Healthcare Workers Continue COVID-19 Testing On Halloween
Oct 31, 2020, 8:13 PM | Updated: Jul 12, 2023, 6:14 pm
WEST VALLEY CITY, Utah — As Utah’s positive numbers continue to surge, healthcare workers continue to work hard, trying to get as many people as possible tested.
Many of them have come under fire lately, including state epidemiologist Dr. Angela Dunn, who had protesters outside her house, from those who believe the numbers are either false or no big deal.
On Saturday, healthcare workers were once again busy administering tests at the Maverik Center in West Valley City.
Not everyone there was against the science and work the healthcare workers do. A lot of people said thank you to the healthcare workers for the job they’re doing.
One person who stopped by, Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson, said it’s not fair they are being attacked and protested, and wanted the workers to know they’re appreciated.
“Today is a holiday and they’re not with their families,” she said.
At the Maverik Center, though, it wasn’t ghosts, power rangers, or princesses being celebrated.
Instead, those who dress up every single day as medical workers were the real heroes.
“We need to honor them,” said Mayor Wilson.
Even though, lately, some people have been acting as if the workers are the villains.
“Because of the negative comments that have been made recently in the community,” said Wilson.
That’s why Mayor Wilson came to the coronavirus testing center Saturday morning, to thank the healthcare workers and let them know they’re appreciated for the tough job they’re doing.
“You know, for every one negative comment, there are thousands of us that believe in you, that thank you, that appreciate you,” she said.
Mayor Wilson brought treats for the workers, but knows not even a Snickers bar will make the currently political climate go away. Which is why she feels for as loud as some people have been, it’s important to let healthcare workers know loud doesn’t mean more.
“The place to be lashing out at out of frustration is not to the very people who are saving lives,” she said.
Mayor Wilson is running for Salt Lake County Mayor.
KSL also reached out to her opponent in the race, Riverton mayor Trent Staggs, who also said “it is completely inappropriate to protest at someone’s home, make threats, or intimidate public officials in any way.”
Staggs also strongly condemned those actions.