One of the most polemic issues happening right now in real time is whether or not one should get their COVID-19 vaccine. Despite being certified as safe and effective, the jab has been deemed by many as a dangerous and experimental substance by many. However, it is crucial to distinguish between vaccine hesitancy versus full blown Anti-Vaxx ideology.
The truth on the ground is many people are not trained to assess academic and scientific journals. And the Internet, riddled with thousands of websites, can lead one down very conspiratorial rabbit holes. A lot of people are simply scared and unsure because of the massive amounts of information bombarding them from every angle.
The vaccines work – transmission rates have dropped amongst those vaccinated but remained relatively concerning among unvaccinated. The jab reduces hospitalisation rates and even deaths. The dangers of a virus which invades one’s respiratory system and causes irreversible pulmonary function for life.
But misinformation spreads – often with an agenda. More than 60% of vaccine misinformation is distributed by just 12 high profile personalities (called the Disinformation Dozen). It is crucial not to demonise anyone who is just hesitant about vaccination – the pandemic should truly become an opportunity to come together and protect each other.
When assessing information, keeping in mind certain flaws in thinking is crucial. First, there is confirmation bias. When one is leaning towards certain ideas, it is very easy to find sources of information to solidify pre-existing beliefs. Science, however, seeks to prove its hypothesis wrong before moving forward. This brings us to the next tool: research.
‘Doing my research’ is often a slogan wielded by both parties – whether it is in favour or against vaccination. It is important that the research does not stop at one influencer or contrarian ‘expert.’ Trace back the information to the original sources, assess whether the publishers have had papers retracted and cross reference.
It is also immensely important to keep in mind that the scientific enterprise is NOT out to get you. This does not mean that large world-spanning companies are infallible and do no wrong. But confusing actual corruption and conspiracies with the idea that all scientists are out to get you diminishes the genuine strive to discover and help humanity.
Finally, we must remember we are all facing this pandemic together. We are all tired and exhausted, but it is crucial not to end up at each other’s throats. The vaccination programme is helping – fear mongering the other side will not help. When it comes to pushing for vaccination, science communication and understanding are crucial.
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