Today, I decided to interview someone who is against the COVID-19 vaccine to try to understand different perspectives in our country. Here is what I learned!
Her Campus (HC): Are you vaccinated, and do you believe COVID-19 is a threat to people’s health?
Anonymous (A): No, I am not vaccinated. I do believe COVID-19 is a threat to one’s health and people need to be vigilant in good health, a good diet and a good sleep pattern.
HC: Why have you chosen not to be vaccinated?
A: I feel that it is too new—it will take time to build knowledge of viruses and vaccines. Also, I have a medical exemption to not be vaccinated until January 2022 from my primary care physician due to the shingles virus.
HC: Have you faced any obstacles because of your vaccination status?
A: Yes, I have lost my job as a wound care nurse for St. Vincent’s Wound Clinic. Also, while in Hawaii, no restaurant would let non-vaccinated customers sit inside and the same goes for multiple different establishments.
HC: What could make you trust the vaccine? Both Pfizer and Moderna have been approved by the FDA, is there any other approval you are waiting on?
A: Yes, I’m waiting on my own approval…meaning my gut instinct. Many, many vaccines have been approved by the FDA but until they are in use for multiple years, there is no guarantee regarding side effects or long-term problems.
HC: Do you think that vaccination status should have any affiliation with political beliefs?
A: Absolutely not, and it never should.
HC: What are your thoughts on the pill that Pfizer is working on?
A: I find it almost amusing that they’re suddenly so knowledgeable regarding vaccines. Where are all the answers to questions regarding the virus? Why can I not smell after having COVID-19 15 months ago?
HC: Now that you have a medical exemption to not get vaccinated, do you regret not having gotten the vaccine before?
A: No, I do not. I have offered to my (previous employer) to be tested regularly, I have also offered to have antibody testing done, and I wear a KN95 mask at work and in public settings. I feel I am taking precautions that I would take if I was vaccinated, also.
HC: What would be your ideal alternative to combatting COVID-19, without enforcing the federal vaccine mandate?
A: As I answered before, I would take multiple different precautions whether I’m vaccinated or not. I feel it’s unfair to healthcare workers. Our patients do not get asked if they are vaccinated…the only requirement for them is a face mask. Is that to protect me, as their nurse, if they are not vaccinated? Why must the healthcare worker face mandates?
HC: Why do you think the vaccine has caused such a divide in the United States?
A: Due to so many people regarding it as a political issue and the fact that so many people just do not do the “right thing,” such as wearing masks or following proper quarantines.
HC: Have you ever considered ingesting Ivermectin, a drug used to treat infections?
A: Never; I think people are completely ignorant if they believe that is a reliable alternative.
HC: Do you plan on getting the vaccine anytime in the future?
A: It’s possible—I have not refused to receive it. I have a connective tissue disorder and I am unsure if receiving the vaccine will affect the progression of it. There is not enough known at this time. Unfortunately, I may be forced if I want to work and provide for my family.
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