In our advice section, we tackle the tough questions about life, body image, and family dynamics. This week, we’re addressing a situation where a family member is facing criticism for getting vaccinated early.
Dear Home Insemination Kit,
I just discovered that my state’s early vaccine rollout includes individuals with a BMI over 30. Personally, I don’t endorse BMI as a valid medical measurement, but since it’s part of the system, I thought it was time to use it to my advantage. I was able to secure a COVID vaccine appointment based on my BMI. However, when I shared this news with my family, I expected them to be supportive. Instead, they accused me of taking a spot away from someone more deserving—like the elderly or those with compromised immune systems. They claimed I’m not “fat enough” to justify this decision and suggested I should wait. How should I respond?
Let’s Break This Down.
First and foremost, it’s essential to emphasize that everyone should be getting vaccinated. The more people vaccinated, the closer we get to herd immunity. If your state’s guidelines say you qualify, then you have every right to receive the vaccine.
Your BMI is a criterion set by health officials to identify those at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. It’s important to note that almost half of Americans fall into the “overweight” or “obese” categories according to BMI, and while not everyone with a higher BMI will experience severe illness, the risk is statistically greater.
No one’s need for the vaccine diminishes another’s, and it’s counterproductive to engage in the “Suffering Olympics” when it comes to determining who gets priority. This flawed rollout is a failure of the federal government, not of individuals seeking to protect their health.
Moreover, BMI is a controversial measure that has been criticized for not considering various factors like genetics, muscle mass, or overall health. It was created by a mathematician, not a health expert, over 200 years ago. This outdated tool has often been weaponized against those who don’t fit a certain mold. However, if the government is using BMI for vaccine eligibility, don’t feel guilty about utilizing it to secure your health.
You might want to explain this to your family or simply remind them that achieving herd immunity is more crucial than their misplaced judgment. If it were me, I’d choose to share both perspectives. Congratulations on getting your appointment, and good luck navigating your family’s opinions!
For more insights on topics like this, check out our related post on home insemination and visit Intracervical Insemination for expert information. Additionally, you can find valuable resources on IVF and fertility preservation.
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Summary:
In this article, we address a reader’s concerns about family shaming for receiving the COVID vaccine based on their BMI. We emphasize that everyone is entitled to the vaccine if they meet state guidelines, and highlight the flaws in BMI as a health measurement. Encouragement is given to prioritize health over familial judgment.