To the editor: The brand new leaders on the U.S. Meals and Drug Administration and Division of Well being and Human Providers say COVID-19 vaccines would require extra testing earlier than being accepted for low-risk people below the age of 65 (“Kennedy says COVID vaccines now not beneficial for wholesome youngsters and pregnant girls,” Could 27). Which means your pharmacy is probably not allowed to provide the vaccine even if you’d like it — even if you’re a caregiver for an impaired or aged individual or a new child toddler who shouldn’t be uncovered to the virus.
It’s a fundamental public well being precept {that a} illness that kills thousands and thousands of individuals needs to be given a medical “don’t trespass” signal. Herd immunity, produced when members of the herd have antibodies that present resistance to a illness, is one factor that limits illness unfold. This immunity can come from both restoration from an infection or by vaccination. If you wish to get antibodies safely, vaccination is the best way.
I’m no knowledgeable on infectious illnesses, however neither is Robert “I don’t assume individuals needs to be taking medical recommendation from me” Kennedy Jr. Ask the true consultants.
Michael Gross, MD, Woodland Hills
