To the Editor:
Some observations regarding the ongoing COVID-19 crisis:
First, I believe in some people’s minds there’s a persistent and profound confusion as to whether COVID-19 is a public health issue or a political issue. Some think wearing masks and vaccinations restrict their personal freedom. Yet, I believe “personal freedom” can be a euphemism for selfishness and narcissism. Its narrow focus ignores the safety, health and concern for others.
Regarding the deep confusion about public health versus personal freedom, Michael Gerson, a columnist with the Washington Post, stated it’s as bizarre as someone proposing that garbage collection and sewage treatment are a Marxist plot and such public health practices should be stopped because it impinges on personal freedom.
Second, some people seem to have developed amnesia for science, logic and facts. What happened to the years of science entailing the scientific method, the gathering of and interpretation of data, and critical thinking – classes that many people took in high school and college? How were such memories wiped clean? For some, it appears they’ve been seduced or radicalized by websites that spout COVID-19 theories and ideas that belong in works of fiction.
Third, it seems that some people who read misinformation websites fell into a rabbit hole. As a result, some are poisoning themselves with ivermectin, an anti-parasite medicine for animals. And, in national news, there have been stories about people who refused the COVID-19 vaccine because it did not receive full FDA approval, and who came close to death, but recovered because of antibody drugs that are not fully approved by the FDA. Thankfully, for their welfare and their loved ones, some, when facing death, will adjust their rigorous standards.
Fourth, when people care only about themselves and refuse the vaccine, there is an ongoing worry about children too young to be vaccinated ending up hospitalized and dying. And, the people (doctors, nurses and other medical personnel) who care for them and for adults are exhausted and near burnout.
In the end, let’s hope altruism, compassion and caring about others wins the day.
Jim Bauman
Crystal Lake
Source: The Daily Chronicle
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