As of July, the United States experienced a plateau in vaccination rates, posing a significant risk amid the ongoing pandemic. With many individuals suffering from pandemic fatigue, there is a misconception that we have emerged from the worst of it. However, the Delta variant continues to spread, and by the end of last month, the average number of new COVID-19 cases in the U.S. had surged to approximately 84,000 daily.
We are undeniably at a critical juncture in addressing this pandemic, and the urgency for vaccinations is evident. Unfortunately, some individuals remain unaware of the crucial role herd immunity plays in curbing the virus. While it would be ideal for vaccination rates to increase through incentives alone, the reality is that vaccine mandates are on the horizon, whether people agree or not.
Currently, slightly more than half of the U.S. population is fully vaccinated. According to an AP-NORC poll, 45% of unvaccinated Americans firmly state they will not get vaccinated, while 35% are unlikely to do so. This is disheartening, as recommendations for social distancing and mask-wearing have proven ineffective. The most straightforward solution to ending the pandemic lies in achieving herd immunity through vaccinations.
Federal, state, and local governments are beginning to implement measures that make vaccination the default, easier choice. The Biden administration recently mandated vaccinations for all federal employees and contractors, while also directing the military to pursue compulsory vaccinations. The Department of Veterans Affairs has also put mandates in place for frontline health workers within its facilities.
New York City is set to launch the “Key to NYC Pass,” which will require proof of vaccination for most indoor activities, including gyms, restaurants, and performances starting September 13. Private companies, such as Uber, Facebook, Google, Netflix, and Delta Air Lines, are also implementing vaccine requirements, and nearly 600 colleges and universities will require vaccinations.
Before some individuals express their outrage over these mandates, it’s essential to recognize that vaccine requirements are not a new concept. Most people reading this are likely vaccinated against diseases like measles, mumps, polio, and chickenpox, which were once common but are now rare in the U.S. due to vaccination efforts.
There is also legal precedence for mandating COVID-19 vaccinations. States have held the authority to require vaccinations for decades—such as those necessary for children to attend public schools. This authority has been affirmed by the Supreme Court in past rulings. Recently, a federal judge upheld the vaccination policy at Houston Methodist Hospital, stating it did not violate any federal laws, and Indiana University’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate was also deemed lawful by a federal court.
Moreover, the Department of Justice and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) have confirmed that businesses can legally require employees to receive a COVID-19 vaccine to work on-site, although they must allow legitimate medical or religious exemptions. Public schools must also provide medical exemptions for those who may be harmed by vaccines but are not obligated to accommodate religious or conscientious objections.
Despite some skepticism regarding the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) status of the vaccines, it’s worth noting that the DOJ and EEOC have clarified that employer mandates are permissible even under EUA. However, all current state and military mandates depend on full vaccine approval, which the FDA is expediting for the Pfizer vaccine, expected to occur by September, with Moderna likely following closely behind.
While some individuals may have valid reasons for not getting vaccinated, concerns about government tracking are unfounded. Credentials from dubious sources do not qualify one to assess vaccine safety. For those who still believe the pandemic is fabricated, it’s hard to engage in meaningful dialogue.
Everyone has the right to refuse vaccination, but this decision transcends individual choice. Vaccines serve the greater purpose of public health and safeguarding the vulnerable, especially those with compromised immune systems and children who are not yet eligible for vaccination. Mandating vaccines is not about infringing on personal rights; it’s about collective responsibility and solidarity during a global health crisis.
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Summary
The United States is facing a critical moment in the pandemic, as vaccination rates plateau amidst the spread of the Delta variant. Vaccine mandates are being implemented at various government and private levels to promote herd immunity and public safety. While some people may resist these mandates, the legal and historical context supports their necessity for the greater good. Vaccines are essential for protecting vulnerable populations, and the responsibility to keep communities safe extends beyond individual choice.