Water cover leak

[RP1]

After replacing the thermostat and gasket (complete with gasket sealer) on my 1978 Evinrude 15 hp (model #15804B) I have a water leak low on the water cover. (see pic) The water then drains out of a hole in the lower cowling. Is this water leak enough of a concern for me to remove & reinstall the water cover, complete with a new gasket & gasket sealer, or is this leak a repair that can wait until the next thermostat replacement? Cooling water is still flowing well, & engine is not overheating.