Don’t bash vaccines, they are our path to normality
Regarding Konrad’s comment that he’s not willing to test this quickly produced Covid-19 vaccine on himself (MetroTalk, Fri), I’d love to know what his alternative is to taking the vaccine.
Maybe Konrad will self-isolate indefinitely, or walk around in full PPE for evermore. He says he’s in a lowrisk group. Low risk to himself, maybe, but still a significant risk to others not in a low-risk group.
Vaccinations have saved billions of lives worldwide and the reduction in mortality far outweighs any slight side effect. I simply do not believe a vaccine would be released until it passes all safety tests.
Col Blake, Ealing
The fantastic news about a Covid-19 vaccine has been dampened by finding out it will be next year before the majority of us get it.
The good news, however, is that there are so many virus deniers out there who will obviously refuse it that any delay for the rest of us to receive the jab should be halved!
RB, London
In response to Paula from Edinburgh who says the elderly have had their time and can forfeit vaccination (MetroTalk, Fri), you asked for less emotion but unfortunately you have just brought tears to my eyes.
It’s so lovely to read such a selfless and thoughtful comment. You should be first in the vaccination queue so you can continue to spread this love.
Jane, Edenbridge
Paula from Edinburgh suggests the decision to vaccinate the over-80s instead of the working-age population is about emotion, not common sense.
Quite the opposite! The reason workers are furloughed and businesses shut is to reduce spread to the vulnerable, older population, who are the ones more likely to be admitted to hospital.
If we reduce hospital admissions by vaccinating the over-80s, we reduce the threat of overwhelming the NHS and the rest of the population can get back to work. Common sense. Or public-health science, actually. Debbie, London
I completely disagree with Paula’s almost nihilistic view that the elderly should not be prioritised for a vaccine to protect against Covid-19.
They should be prioritised because they are among the most vulnerable in our society, and they may have reached 80 but they are still human beings with as much right to life as anyone else.
Many of them are vibrant, energetic, giving members of society who are loved and valued by their families and friends who don’t want them consigned to life’s scrapheap.
If Paula is happy to sacrifice herself as a Covid-19 martyr then that’s up to her but don’t devalue life for older members of society as emotionalism.
JQ, Sheffield
I read what issues the Scottish government are experiencing with their test and trace and, like the English version, Nicola Sturgeon hit the nail right on the head in saying ‘personal responsibility’ for all.
The system doesn’t work if the public don’t comply. It’s not entirely the government’s fault – it’s not that straightforward.