It’s been 5 whole years since the start of the COVID-19 Outbreak. We’ve seen professions, sociality, academics, sports and economics impacted through the transition into remote practices. As of now, the world has almost gone back to normal. However, there are still incidents of outbreaks occurring at a constant rate. An insight that reveals a concerning disposition towards COVID-19’s effect on the world.
In close-knit, religious communities, there have been frequent outbreaks spurring. This is due to many right-leaning areas being apprehensive towards the vaccine, a viewpoint that originated during the 2020 pandemic days, when COVID was rumored to be a hoax. Obviously, it was a false statement, as the vaccine has been proven to reduce the risk of illnesses and transmission. It also protected those who had weaker immune systems.
Unfortunately, these scientific facts did not change the minds of the opposition. Cue in the isolation and lack of communication, and you get a wave of Anti-Vaccine perspectives that have been dominating US right-leaning states in the south and west. The biggest outbreaks occurring right now are measles. A contagious disease that has claimed the lives of 2 Americans – the first casualties in a decade. What’s worse is that measles vaccinations have dropped to 84% in 2023, a 13% decrease compared to decades before.
Sadly, the nation’s top health official Robert F Kennedy Jr is adopting this stance. A policy that allows the virus to spread instead of using caution. This has been met with ire and shock from health officials who’ve stated that it can kill millions if not checked. RFK also believes that the measles vaccination causes blindness and deafness, once again showing a lack of knowledge on the public health front.
To sum it up, this vaccine skepticism movement has been troubling, to say the least. It’s understandable to be wary due to the side effects and allergic reactions. But in the last 5 years, it should be clear that the vaccine is not a hoax. People who have conditions such as Crohn’s disease could have their lives taken if this conservative thought pattern continues.
