No booster shot for me … at least not now
Before I explain my reasoning, I want to STRESS that I am talking about ME … not you. I am not suggesting that YOU should not get a booster. I make my personal decisions based on the facts as they apply to ME … not everyone. As readers know from past commentaries, I fully endorse getting the initial vaccine. So, why not the booster.
Well … first, I am not eligible according to the scientists. I have the Moderna vaccine. Currently, booster shots are only for those who got the Pfizer vaccine and are over 65 of age – or have underlying conditions.
But even if it were available, I would not be getting the shot at this time. Why?
First of all, according to science, the Moderna vaccine maintains the highest rate of efficacy over the longest period of time. Statistically, I am virtually as safe today as I was back in March when I got the initial doses.
I am not in a lifestyle that brings me into large crowds on a regular basis. My statistical chance of coming across an infected person is quite slim – and even if I do, the chance of transmission is not very high since I encounter people outdoors or in large venues – and only for a passing moment. According to the science, that is not sufficient time to absorb the quantity of the virus to kick off the disease.
The science also tells me that if I do contract Covid-19 – even the Delta variable – I will likely suffer only mild symptoms and have virtually no chance of death.
Also, while I do have some of the underlying conditions – such as Diabetes –I do not have any lung issues. And lung issues are the real weak point in terms of bad outcomes – as they are with all colds and flu.
I am also aware there are some side effects with the vaccine – as there are with all vaccines and medications. Those side effects are extremely rare, but since I get no perceived benefit from a booster at this time, I see no reason to accept any risk. In other words, the risk is very very small, but the benefits are virtually non-existent for me.
I emphasize “at this time” because it is very possible in the future the risk/benefit analysis for me will change. If that is the case, of course, I would take a booster shot.
What might such changes be? Scientists may discover that the efficacy of the Moderna vaccine is dropping significantly. I might develop a lung problem. I may find myself appearing in highly crowded indoor events. (So far, my speeches are not drawing stadium crowds.)
I still am a vaxxer. I still believe everyone should get vaccinated unless there is a medical issue preventing vaccination. On the other hand, I do not believe that anyone should be forced by the government to get vaccinated. I do not like vaccination passports or work requirements – except in medical facilities and for teachers.
I understand that the un-vaccinated people want to take a chance that I will not take. I understand that they can get very sick – even die – and that they can spread the virus. But … I also know that they are spreading the virus – with the most serious outcomes – to people who also refuse to get vaccinated. The Pandemic is spreading mostly among people who have determined to take the risk. Tragic as many of the outcomes are, that is on them.
Some point out that a vaccinated person can spread the virus — very unlikely, but possible. But even in that case, it will largely impact those who take the risk of not getting vaccinated. It does not spread to any serious degree among the vaccinated – and in those few cases, the outcomes are mild. I should not have to mask up, social distance and avoid crowds based on the willingness of those deciding to take the risk.
To use an analogy. If a drunk driver takes the risk and kills someone, that other person was not taking the same risk. They are an innocent victim. To me, the Pandemic is like drunk drivers injuring and killing each other. It is stupid. It is sad. But they both took the risk. Those of us who did not take the risk and got vaccinated are largely in the clear.
They often refer to it as “the Pandemic of the unvaccinated.” I agree. As I wrote in a commentary after receiving the vaccine … “for me the Pandemic is over.” So, stop making me – and millions of vaccinated Americans – live like WE are still in the Pandemic.
So, there ‘tis.
Wow, you can be so sane at times. A very few times :>)
On this one I agree with all except we all need to realize every fact you put out there might change. Right now, Moderna seems the better choice for extended efficacy, but we all should know that that fact could change in a heartbeat. There’s actual reasons the Moderna is performing better, but new info, more info, comes in every day. In any event, even at diminished results, both vaccines are pretty damned great. Great results, few bad outcomes, all great.
The other I would note is that, for the unvaccinated, the vaccinated pose a real threat. If we catch it, are asymptomatic, we carry the same punch for the unvaccinated, as those racing to get to ER before their lungs cave in. We just look, act, and seem to be 100% spiffy when we are 100+ % actively contagious and the unvaccinated are our targets. Given the lack of masks amongst vaccinated (who may not really need them), and the unvaccinated (who should be wearing multiples….), this should be a real concern in partially vaccinated regions.
For me, Larry, the conclusion is walk, don’t run, to my nearest vaccination site for this simple reason: why not? More is better, I will be in no hurry, and by the time I get there, will understand any third shot downsides, and let’s face it Larry, with underlying conditions, neither of us really know “how vaccinated” we really are. Doubtful either of us checked.
Personally, I do not fear the disease, the death, can think of better things that a breathing tube, but I’m already past my family’s normal expiration date. The real fear I have is being the creator of the next deadly variant. My limited brain power hints that perhaps the vaccinated may be where the virus creates it’s next breakthrough and I really will do anything NOT to be that guy.
So, like I said, I will get it but I will take my time, avoid the rush, and be prepared to enjoy the holidays more than last year.
Wonder how many will slam you for this Larry; I would say it’s hilarious, but frankly, it’s more like hellacious that people still think this is the devil’s brew and they are better off without it. 2,000 dead people every day probably disagree, many begging to be vaccinated after it is too late. Heck, in some hospitals all they get is comfort care, there’s no room at the Inn for real hospitalization anymore in a number of states. They are in crisis care instead.