The private cost of public service: how sharing science about COVID put experts in the crosshairs
Dr. Alex Wong vividly remembers the night, five years ago, when he came across modelling data that predicted a potential surge of COVID-19 positive patients in Saskatchewan. As he sat reading the data, his kids were peacefully asleep, unaware of the impending crisis. The data painted a grim picture, showing that the healthcare system was at risk of being overwhelmed. Wong felt a deep sense of fear and anxiety wash over him, a pit forming in his stomach as he realized the magnitude of what was to come.
The first case of COVID-19 in Saskatchewan was announced on March 12, 2020, marking the beginning of an arduous journey for healthcare workers across the province. Dr. Wong, an infectious diseases specialist in Regina, along with his wife, a registered nurse, found themselves on the front lines of the pandemic. Wong took on an additional responsibility of sharing public health information through media interviews and social media, becoming a voice of reason and guidance during a time of uncertainty.
The early days of the pandemic were harrowing, with Wong witnessing young, otherwise healthy individuals succumbing to the virus in the absence of a vaccine. The toll of the crisis was immense, both physically and emotionally, on healthcare workers like Wong and his colleagues.
In January 2022, Wong reached a breaking point. The stress of his daily work and his advocacy efforts took a toll on his physical health, leading to a period where he was unable to walk due to the tightness and tension in his body. This marked a turning point for Wong, prompting him to take a step back from his public appearances and advocacy work, going “radio silent” as he focused on his own well-being.
Dr. Angela Rasmussen, a virologist at the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization in Saskatoon, also experienced the impact of being a public health figure during the pandemic. She faced disinformation and hateful commentary, which took a toll on her mental health and trust in others.
The scars of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to linger for many healthcare workers in Saskatchewan, with some choosing to leave the profession due to the moral trauma they endured. Wong reflects on the importance of prioritizing time with his family, recognizing the value of these moments in the face of a public health crisis.
As he navigates the aftermath of the pandemic, Wong remains grateful for the trust and respect he earned from the community. While the challenges of the past years have been immense, he looks forward to the possibility of brighter days ahead, cherishing the time spent with his loved ones and finding solace in the resilience of the human spirit.
