The formal federal public health emergency declared over the coronavirus pandemic officially ended on Thursday, meaning an end to several government programs — including free COVID-19 tests and vaccines — meant to keep people safe during the outbreak.

While the worst of the pandemic is behind us (MyMichigan Health, the Midland-based owner of the Alpena hospital, officially ended its mask mandate on Thursday), it’s important that we remember the lessons we learned during the emergency that helped to prevent the spread of disease.

We have to practice good hygiene, including washing our hands or using hand sanitizer frequently.

We have to stay home when we’re sick.

We have to practice social distancing from people who are showing symptoms of illness.

We need to stay up to date on our vaccinations — not just the COVID-19 vaccine, but the flu vaccine, as well.

Doing those things can protect us not only from COVID-19, but from the flu, the common cold, and other viral infections, as well. While most people get over such sicknesses, not everyone does.

Staying vigilant can save lives.

Most of America and the world learned those lessons well during the pandemic, enough so that it’s become a normal part of life over the last three years.

If we keep our guard up, we can help prevent another mass outbreak and protect ourselves from common illnesses that can have drastic consequences for some people.

Stay safe, Northeast Michigan.