The Saskatchewan Medical Association expressed their gratitude Tuesday to organizations that have taken independent action to tackle the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

S-M-A President Dr. Eben Strydom said, “The province’s physicians wish to thank those entities that have implemented protective measures including mandating vaccinations or masking to access buildings or services. We admire their leadership and courage at a time when case numbers top 2,000, more than 100 people are hospitalized and, sadly, 601 people have died from COVID-19 in Saskatchewan.”

Strydom thanked some major organizations, such as the Saskatchewan Roughriders, the City of Saskatoon, the City of Regina as well as the Universities of Saskatchewan and Regina for requiring either proof of vaccination or re-introducing mandatory masking for individuals to access their place of business or services. Dr. Strydom also thanked businesses large and small, and various organizations that have or are considering public health measures, plus a growing number of concert venues and bars that will require patrons and staff to be fully vaccinated.