To Vax or Not to Vax

Tennis star Novac Djokovic’s announcement this week clarifying his stance concerning the Covid vaccine, and his reasons for not wanting to have it, has caused some controversy. This is worth mentioning as he is seen as a role model for many people who may be hesitant to accept it. Had he explained this last month, when trying to get permission to stay in Australia, he might have saved us all a lot of airtime. 

Whilst I am not anti-vaccine, I do have some sympathy with him. To be honest, I am ambivalent.  

For the last two years we have all been living through unprecedented and turbulent times. The need for swift action has meant that the ability to devise a vaccine as a matter of urgency has rightly gained much acclaim and applause. However, as has often been the case in the past, such a rapid response can have its drawbacks. We are unlikely to see any potential long-term repercussions manifest themselves for some time. 

I was prompt in having my first two Astra-Zeneca jabs, thankfully without any side effects at all. However, this was not the case with the Moderna booster jab which knocked me for six, laying me low for days and with ongoing symptoms since then. I am not at all sure that I will now be so willing to have a further booster should it be offered. 

Fearful of catching Covid, largely due to long-term respiratory problems, I am all too aware that the only person who can protect my health is myself. Hence, I have been very cautious about where I go, and who I mix with. Apart from the period when we were in full lockdown, I have largely been able to go about my business and do test regularly. 

But, having said that, I firmly believe that all businesses, entertainment venues, health providers, employers and employees do have the right to be protected where possible. If this means that in some cases freedom of movement means agreeing to succumb to the Covid vaccine, then that has to be respected. Whilst Novac has every right to refuse the vaccine, he cannot expect to then be granted the same freedoms as those of us who are willing to take the risk of being vaccinated. Yes, there may be as yet unknown long-term consequences but to protect my health in the here and now, it is a risk I am willing to take.