To the editor: The brand new leaders on the U.S. Meals and Drug Administration and Division of Well being and Human Companies say COVID-19 vaccines would require further testing earlier than being permitted for low-risk people below the age of 65 (“Kennedy says COVID vaccines no longer recommended for healthy children and pregnant women,” Might 27). Which means your pharmacy might not be allowed to provide the vaccine even if you need it — even if you’re a caregiver for an impaired or aged particular person or a new child toddler who shouldn’t be uncovered to the virus.
It’s a primary public well being precept {that a} illness that kills tens of millions 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 skilled on infectious illnesses, however neither is Robert “I don’t assume individuals needs to be taking medical recommendation from me” Kennedy Jr. Ask the actual consultants.
Michael Gross, MD, Woodland Hills
