
<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>But even if it were available, I would not be getting the shot at this time. ; Why?</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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. ; ;</p>



<p>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.)</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>Some point out that a vaccinated person can spread the virus &#8212; 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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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. ; ;</p>



<p>So, there ‘tis.</p>

No booster shot for me … at least not now
