artificial insemination kit for humans
In recent months, two acquaintances of mine who reside overseas traveled to the United States with a singular purpose: to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Their trip had nothing to do with theme parks or tourist attractions; it was solely about securing a vaccine that is readily available here.
The U.S. has such an abundance of vaccine doses that international visitors are directed to vaccination sites before they even clear customs. It’s a remarkable situation—everyone is welcome to get vaccinated!
My friends, who prefer to remain nameless, based their decision on the experiences of others who had undertaken the same journey. But why would anyone spend hundreds of dollars to travel thousands of miles just to get vaccinated? The answer is straightforward: in their home countries, they won’t be eligible for the vaccine for several more months. In many low-income nations, only a tiny fraction of the population has received at least one dose. In contrast, around 55% of Americans have received at least one dose, with plenty of supply for everyone.
One of my friends, who traveled in June, was informed by her government that she wouldn’t be eligible for vaccination until March 2022. This is the harsh reality of geographical privilege that many Americans overlook.
Geographical Privilege and Healthcare Disparities
My friend has a young child with a compromised immune system due to a previous cancer battle. She has no choice but to work outside the home, yet she is terrified of bringing COVID-19 back to her baby. The health system in her country is far less developed than in the U.S., and she recounted chilling tales of hospitals in underserved areas running out of oxygen and losing multiple COVID-19 patients in a single night while waiting for supplies that never arrived.
For her, the trip to get vaccinated was worth the financial sacrifice. She recognizes that her ability to make such a choice is a privilege in itself.
The Disconcerting Arrogance of Vaccine Hesitancy
Both of my friends are astounded by the vaccine hesitancy displayed by many Americans. They struggle to comprehend how individuals in the U.S. can take for granted the privileges they enjoy. I often find myself cringing in embarrassment as I explain that many Americans, particularly those who are most vocal about their patriotism, are often the most resistant to vaccination.
There is a unique kind of privilege associated with refusing the COVID-19 vaccine in the U.S. Despite valid concerns about healthcare costs, most people still trust that they will receive care if they fall ill. Even if it leads to financial ruin, care will be available. This contrasts sharply with many other countries where the healthcare infrastructure is lacking, making the risks of COVID-19 far more severe.
Health and Financial Privilege in Vaccine Decisions
Another facet of this privilege is the assumption that a healthy individual will be fine if they contract the virus. Many anti-vaxxers seem oblivious to the potential consequences their choices may have on those with weaker immune systems or pre-existing conditions. It’s a stark reminder that not everyone has the luxury of disregarding the effects of the virus.
Financial security also plays a major role in vaccine hesitancy. Many people can afford to take time off work to recover from an illness, but for others, losing even a few days of income is untenable. For those individuals, getting vaccinated is a necessary safeguard against illness.
The Importance of Herd Immunity
Refusing the vaccine contributes to the ongoing spread of COVID-19 and its mutations. Those who choose not to vaccinate hinder our ability to achieve herd immunity. Vaccination decisions should be informed by scientific evidence and a sense of social responsibility. The science demonstrates the vaccine’s safety, and statistics indicate that the risks of side effects are minimal compared to the potential long-term consequences of a COVID-19 infection.
We must care enough about our fellow citizens to take action against the spread of this virus. It’s disheartening to see so many Americans prioritize their individual beliefs over the well-being of the community, especially when so many around the world yearn for access to the vaccine.
It’s time for Americans to recognize their privileges and make better choices for the greater good.