The topic of COVID-19 has become all too familiar. Within the past year, there have been many breakthroughs in science, including the authorization of vaccines. For many people, vaccines represented hope and a light at the end of a very dark tunnel. Others were skeptical and did not trust the vaccine. The differing opinions on the vaccine sparked a lot of controversies and led to a lot of division between people.
Recently, many businesses started requiring workers to receive the COVID-19 vaccination as a condition of employment. But is a vaccine mandate morally right?
In my opinion, no, it is not. It is not fair to require someone to get the vaccine if they do not feel comfortable getting it. However, if someone is not vaccinated and is not willing to get vaccinated, they should have to take certain precautions to prevent the spread of the disease. If they are not able to do either of those things, then I believe businesses have every right to take disciplinary actions against them.
The main focus of a business should be protecting its employees and customers — above all else. The best way to do that is to create a safe and healthy environment. Vaccines are known to be one of the most beneficial public health interventions for saving lives and preventing disease and viruses.
I am vaccinated against COVID-19, and I believe vaccines are extremely beneficial. However, I support people who do not want to get the vaccine. Vaccines should not be mandated.
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At the same time, we need to start taking steps toward ending this pandemic. If you want to be a part of the change, the best thing you can do is get vaccinated.
Gracie Jean Zimmer
Grand Rapids
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