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Last week, President Biden unveiled an extensive vaccine mandate targeting American workers, a move that comes at a crucial time as the Delta variant leads to significant outbreaks, straining healthcare systems, and resulting in around 1,500 daily fatalities. With only 53% of Americans fully vaccinated, it was clear that bold action was necessary to regain control over the pandemic, affecting approximately two-thirds of American workers, or around 2.5 million individuals.
The White House’s plan stipulates that federal employees, contractors working for federal agencies, and those involved with Medicare and Medicaid must be vaccinated. Additionally, companies with over 100 employees will be required to enforce vaccination mandates, though employees may opt for weekly testing instead of vaccination.
However, the effectiveness of these mandates in today’s politically charged climate, coupled with the current virus spread, is uncertain. According to a report by The New York Times, while these mandates will be beneficial, their effects will not be felt immediately. Even if a substantial portion of those required to get vaccinated comply, it will take weeks for them to achieve full immunity.
Experts point out that the vaccination process is not instantaneous; for a two-dose vaccine, it requires at least six weeks to complete. By that time, we will be heading into the colder months and holiday season, which typically sees increased indoor gatherings and respiratory illnesses.
Moreover, it will take additional weeks for the regulations for larger businesses to be implemented, as OSHA must first finalize the rules. This delay means that even if individuals intend to get vaccinated, they will not have full protection for some time.
Public sentiment also plays a role, as a recent poll from the Washington Post and ABC News indicated that only 18% of unvaccinated individuals would get vaccinated under a workplace mandate. A significant 72% stated they would likely resign if they couldn’t secure an exemption for medical or religious reasons. While some may reconsider their stance when faced with the reality of job loss, many are prepared to resist these mandates, seeking exemptions or even resorting to dishonest means regarding their vaccination status.
Additionally, numerous lawsuits are anticipated, especially from states with Republican leadership, aiming to challenge these mandates. While the precise impact of these legal actions on vaccination rates remains unclear, they will likely create further obstacles.
Despite this, even if a modest percentage of individuals choose to get vaccinated due to these mandates, it could lead to millions of additional vaccinated individuals. Every vaccination is a step closer to overcoming this pandemic. The FDA’s swift approval of vaccines for children would also significantly aid the effort.
While I applaud Biden’s initiative to mandate vaccinations, I wish the strategy also emphasized other vital measures to prevent COVID spread and protect unvaccinated individuals, particularly children, during this surge. Experts suggest that masks and testing should be just as strongly promoted as vaccination efforts. It is essential to maintain a multi-faceted approach to effectively manage this public health crisis.
I’m hopeful that these measures will lead to positive outcomes sooner rather than later.