antivaxx

Wednesday March 6, 2024

The recent surge in measles cases in Canada, particularly in Montreal, underscores the urgent need to address vaccine hesitancy and combat anti-vaccine conspiracy theories, with historical evidence emphasizing the proven efficacy of vaccines in preventing disease and protecting public health.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday March 6, 2024

The Vital Role of Vaccines in Preventing Measles

The recent surge in measles cases in Canada, particularly in Montreal, underscores the urgent need to address vaccine hesitancy and combat anti-vaccine conspiracy theories, with historical evidence emphasizing the proven efficacy of vaccines in preventing disease and protecting public health.

News: Quebec reports 10 cases of measles in Montreal area, health officials urge vaccinations

December 2, 2021

The recent resurgence of measles in Quebec, with ten confirmed cases in Greater Montreal, serves as a stark reminder of the critical role vaccines play in public health. This outbreak, now the epicentre of a Canadian concern, has ignited discussions about the root causes, and it seems that vaccine hesitancy, fuelled by anti-vaccine conspiracy theories, is a significant factor.

As health officials scramble to contain the outbreak, the words of Quebec Public Health Director Luc Boileau echo with urgency. He warns that the disease could rapidly spread among the unvaccinated, emphasizing the need for swift action to address the situation. While Quebec currently does not mandate vaccination, the emphasis is on providing information, facilitating access to shots, and dispelling misconceptions.

November 30, 2021

The efficacy of vaccines, especially against measles, has been proven over the past 50 years. Dr. Caroline Quach-Thanh, a paediatrician and infectious disease specialist, emphasizes the safety, efficiency, and quick action of the measles vaccine. Yet, despite decades of evidence supporting vaccination, a significant challenge remains – vaccine hesitancy.

In Montreal and its suburbs, vaccination coverage in schools hovers around 80%, below the 95% required to prevent community transmission. The reasons are varied, from delays in translating foreign vaccination records to vaccine hesitancy, a phenomenon exacerbated by limited access for newly arrived children.

September 15, 2021

The virus’s high contagion rate, coupled with potential complications, especially in young children, underscores the importance of immunization. The harm extends beyond the individual; the immune-compromised face severe consequences, making vaccination not just a personal choice but a communal responsibility.

The historical success of vaccines, including the measles vaccine, should guide our present actions. However, the current landscape is clouded by misinformation and skepticism, particularly regarding COVID-19 vaccines. The rise in anti-vaccine sentiment, as evidenced by the unfounded chatter on social media, suggests a broader problem.

December 11, 2020

A simple fact-checking response might aid in emphasing the importance of relying on scientific evidence and expert consensus, and not on quackery baked up in Tik-Toks and You Tube clip served up by snake oil agents. It counters the notion that mRNA vaccines, a breakthrough in the fight against COVID-19, are ineffective or overhyped. The evidence points to the contrary, highlighting the role of mRNA technology in reducing mortality rates and controlling the virus’s spread.

As we grapple with the resurgence of measles and the challenges posed by vaccine hesitancy, the message is clear – vaccines save lives. The current outbreak should serve as a call to action, not just to address immediate concerns but to tackle the root causes of hesitancy and misinformation. In a world where viruses don’t develop resistance to vaccines, the path to overcoming outbreaks is through widespread and informed vaccination. (AI)

Letter to the Editor, The Hamilton Spectator, March 11, 2024

Vaccinations and our rights

Re: Hamilton, Brantford to host booster clinics after measles exposures (March 1)

The return of measles, which can be deadly or leave serious side effect like deafness, reveals that a major portion of the population is unvaccinated, especially children. As with COVID-19, those refusing vaccination on the basis of their democratic right of freedom ignore what democracy is about. Democracy indeed allows for freedom of ideas, speech, choice, movement, but equally, and the “no vaccines” crowd ignore it, is that these rights may not be exercised should they imperil other members of society or their rights.

February 8, 2022

You may think what you wish, but you may not spout hatred, not vocally nor in the media, nor in print, nor in blasting truck horns all night. You may not pull together enough fellow bigots to bring in voting regulations which deny the vote to fellow citizens, as we have witnessed in some U.S. states. You may not endanger the health of your fellow citizens; thus anti-pollution laws. Under freedom of choice, these non-thinkers are rejecting vaccination, a treatment to control an incredibly infectious disease which threatens all democratic rights, and because they continue to move about freely, they endanger the lives of fellow democratic citizens. In practice, I reject autocracy totally, but recognize the sneakily cynical thought that tyrants have one advantage, they can enforce essentials. Unfortunately, they cannot enforce intelligence. Equally unfortunate, there is no vaccine for pig-headed stupidity.

Dr. Helen Hatton, Hamilton

Friday November 17, 2023

The recent incident in Vancouver, where Pro-Palestinian protesters surrounded Prime Minister Trudeau at a restaurant, along with previous instances of incivility, underscores a concerning trend of disrespect and aggression in Canadian politics that threatens the principles of civil discourse and democratic engagement.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday November 17, 2023

The Escalating Incivility: Protester Actions Against Prime Minister Trudeau

Amid rising COVID-19 cases and vaccine rollout, it's crucial to combat antivax sentiments by staying informed and resilient. Highlighting the recent Nobel Prize awarded to scientists Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman for their groundbreaking mRNA vaccine development can serve as a powerful countermeasure against such sentiments.

October 4, 2023

The recent incident in Vancouver, where Pro-Palestinian protesters surrounded and chanted at Prime Minister Justin Trudeau while he dined at a restaurant, is a troubling reflection of the rising level of incivility in Canadian politics. This incident, reminiscent of the “F*ck Trudeau” signs during the freedom convoy protest last year and the gravel-throwing episode during the 2021 campaign stop, highlights a concerning trend of disrespect and aggression towards the country’s leader.

The altercation at Vikram Vij’s restaurant saw Trudeau being hurriedly escorted out by his security detail as protesters filled the establishment, chanting “ceasefire now!” Such behaviour not only disrupts the personal space of a public figure but also undermines the principles of civil discourse and democratic engagement.

News: 100 Vancouver police sent to protect Justin Trudeau after Gaza protest surrounds restaurant

Student unions marching for Palestine may focus on raising awareness about Palestinian suffering, but it's important to have respectful dialogue considering diverse perspectives and experiences in the Israel-Palestine conflict.

November 1, 2023

The subsequent pursuit of Trudeau to a Chinatown cocktail bar, where 250 demonstrators surrounded the area, led to a significant police response. One individual was tasered, and a charge of assaulting a police officer was recommended. This aggressive behaviour raises serious concerns about the state of public discourse and the safety of political figures.

Protest organizer Charlotte Kates defended the actions, stating a refusal to let political leaders “go about ordinary business.” While the right to peaceful assembly is a cornerstone of democracy, crossing the line into intimidation and disruption erodes the foundations of civil discourse.

It is crucial to note that these incidents are not isolated. Vancouver has witnessed a “significant increase” in protests related to the Israel-Hamas conflict, indicating a broader trend of heightened political tensions. The “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free!” chant, common at pro-Palestinian rallies, has raised questions about its potential antisemitic undertones, a concern also acknowledged by Calgary police in a recent case.

June 30, 2022

The parallels with the use of expletive-laden flags during the freedom convoy protest and the condemnation of Trudeau by Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre are noteworthy. While Poilievre expressed disapproval of the flags, he acknowledged the underlying anger and frustration among Canadians. This sentiment, however, should not justify or normalize disrespectful and aggressive behaviour.

In a separate incident during the 2021 election campaign, a man threw gravel at Trudeau in London, Ontario, resulting in a 90-day house arrest sentence. The judge rightly denounced the act as the “manifestation of mob mentality” and emphasized the need to denounce such actions to safeguard the democratic process.

News: Trudeau says he was hit by gravel, condemns rock throwing as ‘unacceptable’  

As we navigate these challenging times, it is crucial for Canadians to engage in constructive dialogue and express dissent without resorting to aggression. Political leaders, regardless of their stance, deserve a level of respect that upholds the values of democracy. It is high time for a collective reflection on the tone and conduct of political discourse in Canada to ensure the preservation of a healthy and robust democratic society. (AI)

 

Wednesday October 4, 2023

Amid rising COVID-19 cases and vaccine rollout, it's crucial to combat antivax sentiments by staying informed and resilient. Highlighting the recent Nobel Prize awarded to scientists Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman for their groundbreaking mRNA vaccine development can serve as a powerful countermeasure against such sentiments.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday October 4, 2023

Trust in Science: A Vital Component in Our Fight Against COVID-19

October 15, 2021

In the face of rising COVID-19 cases and a new vaccine rollout, it is disheartening to witness the resurgence of anti-vax sentiment. Yet, we must resist the urge to succumb to COVID fatigue and instead emphasize the importance of staying informed, resilient, and trusting in science. Recent developments have spotlighted the critical role of mRNA vaccines in our fight against the pandemic. In 2023, scientists Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their groundbreaking discoveries at the University of Pennsylvania that paved the way for effective COVID-19 vaccines.

Kariko and Weissman were honoured for their “discoveries concerning nucleoside base modifications that enabled the development of effective mRNA vaccines against COVID-19.” These vaccines, along with others, have been administered over 13 billion times, saving countless lives, preventing severe illness, and allowing societies to reopen. This achievement is a testament to the power of scientific innovation and collaboration.

News: mRNA COVID vaccines saved lives and won a Nobel — what’s next for the technology?  

January 7, 2022

The story behind these Nobel laureates is a testament to the persistence and ingenuity of scientists. Their journey began in 1998 when they met while waiting for rationed photocopying machine time. Kariko’s breakthrough was finding a way to prevent the immune system from launching an inflammatory reaction against lab-made mRNA, a significant obstacle to therapeutic mRNA use. Together with Weissman, they demonstrated in 2005 that modifications to nucleosides could keep mRNA undetected by the immune system. This pioneering work laid the foundation for mRNA vaccines and revolutionized the way we combat diseases.

Messenger RNA (mRNA) technology, first discovered in 1961, represents a novel approach to medicine. Unlike traditional biotech medicines produced by genetically modified cells in complex reactors, mRNA functions as a software that instructs human cells to produce specific proteins. This technology holds promise not only for vaccines but also for treatments against cancer, malaria, influenza, and rabies.

July 15, 2022

Pfizer, in partnership with BioNTech, and Moderna harnessed the work of Kariko and Weissman, among others, to develop mRNA vaccines in record time when the COVID-19 pandemic was declared in 2020. Yet, despite these remarkable achievements, a vocal anti-vaccine movement has emerged.

The Nobel Prize for Kariko and Weissman’s work may not sway the most ardent vaccine skeptics. Still, it serves as a reminder of the tremendous impact of science on our lives and the rigorous processes that ensure the safety and efficacy of vaccines.

The current wave of anti-vaccine sentiment, particularly in the United States, has deeper roots than political ideology. It reflects a broader decline in trust in institutions of all kinds, including science. This distrust, while most significant among Republicans, is not limited to any one party. It transcends politics and education levels.

It is essential to understand that skepticism about science does not fit neatly into traditional small-government conservatism. Even though mRNA vaccines were developed with private-sector innovation and streamlined regulatory processes, many conservatives remain distrustful of these vaccines, citing concerns about their rapid deployment.

News: Organized Disinformation Fanning the COVID-19 Flames of Vaccine Hesitancy  

July 21, 2020

Restoring faith in science is crucial for a functioning society. Experts must reflect on why so many Americans, regardless of political affiliation, have grown skeptical of institutions and science. It is not just about pro- or anti-government sentiment; it is about trust itself.

Empirical data shows that declining trust in science is linked to a broader decline in institutional trust. Those with more confidence in institutions are more likely to be vaccinated. Religious beliefs and education levels also play a role in shaping attitudes toward science.

The Nobel Prize awarded to Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman reminds us of the incredible progress that science can achieve. It is incumbent upon all of us to stay informed, resist the pull of misinformation, and rebuild trust in science. We must recognize that science, even in the face of skepticism, continues to be our most potent weapon against COVID-19 and future threats. Let us honour the tireless efforts of scientists like Kariko and Weissman by choosing science over misinformation and trust over doubt in our quest for a healthier world. (AI)

 

Friday July 15, 2022

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday July 15, 2022

Exposure to humorous memes about anti-vaxxers boosts intention to get a COVID-19 vaccine, study finds

December 2, 2021

Pro-vaccination messaging may be surprisingly effective when delivered through humorous internet memes, according to new findings published in the journal Computers in Human Behavior. A series of studies revealed that exposure to sarcastic memes about anti-vaxxers increased UK residents’ intention to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. The researchers suggest that the humorous memes were able to bypass the typical defense processes of people who are vaccine-hesitant.

As a vaccine emerged to combat the novel coronavirus, public health officials in Western countries grappled with convincing the population to get vaccinated. Vaccine misinformation was rampant, and officials turned to educational campaigns backed by expert sources to persuade the public that the vaccine was safe and effective.

September 15, 2021

Unfortunately, such educational campaigns can backfire, since people who are vaccine-hesitant are prone to conspiracy belief and tend to be distrustful of authoritative sources. Informational campaigns are also not designed to go viral on social media and can become easily outpaced by anti-vaccine messaging. A team of psychology researchers led by Shawn N. Geniole proposed a need for newer interventions that use messaging that is highly shareable, scalable, and unlikely to be perceived as corrupt — something like an internet meme.

“I find memes to be interesting because they can spread–and be processed by viewers–quite rapidly; therefore, any messages/text within memes may have the potential to persuade/inform others efficiently,” explained Geniole, an assistant professor at University of the Fraser Valley.

Thursday August 19, 2021

“Further, that they’re processed and spread rapidly also means that they may reach and influence individuals who would otherwise not encounter–or might even try to avoid–such information. For example, the type of humor within memes, which often belittles or makes fun of certain groups of individuals or their beliefs, may lead some to rethink their views or to distance themselves from others who hold these views. Can exposure to these types of memes changes one’s beliefs or the extent to which they identify with certain groups? These were the types of ideas/questions that interested me when we started this project.”

The researchers designed six studies involving a total of 1,584 residents of the United Kingdom. In each of these studies, participants were randomly assigned to either an experimental or a control condition. The experimental group viewed a series of eight vaccination-related internet memes that had been collected by researchers using Google Image Search, and the control group viewed control images. While the memes varied slightly depending on the study, the majority of them expressed sarcasm toward anti-vaxxers.

June 17, 2021

After viewing the images, participants were asked whether they intended to get vaccinated against COVID-19. A combined analysis of all six studies revealed that exposure to the vaccine memes increase participants’ intentions to get vaccinated, even after accounting for gender, age, and political orientation.

The study authors say that future research will be needed to explore the psychological processes through which internet memes may impact vaccine attitudes and behaviors. It will also be important to test how this effect may change depending on contextual factors, such as the stages of vaccine development.

The study, “Preliminary evidence that brief exposure to vaccination-related internet memes may influence intentions to vaccinate against COVID-19”, was authored by Shawn N. Geniole, Brian M. Bird, Alayna Witzel, Jordan T. McEvoy, and Valentina Proietti. (PsyPost) 

 

Letters to the Editor, the Hamilton Spectator, Tuesday July 15, 2022

The Hamilton Spectator

Booster cartoon 1:

Regarding MacKay’s pro-booster cartoon Friday: It is obvious, Mr. MacKay, how little you’ve grown in a year and a half!

Marilyn Haughton, Hamilton

Booster cartoon 2:

The Facebook comments on MacKay’s cartoon depicting anti-vaxxers was predictable, with those same anti-vaxxer idiots whining about being treated unfairly.

In my view, his depiction was too kind. These people are public-health hazard losers and deserve to be shunned by all decent people.

Anna Carter, Burlington

 

Thursday June 30, 2022

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday June 30, 2022

Ottawa braced for Canada Day protest by ‘freedom convoy’ supporters

Members of anti-vax convoy have vowed to maintain a presence over the summer initially mingling with the annual celebrations

April 30, 2022

Residents of downtown Ottawa are bracing for a Canada Day unlike any other, after “freedom convoy” protesters vowed to return to Parliament Hill on 1 July, and maintain a presence over the remainder of the summer.

Every Canada Day, people congregate on Parliament Hill in Ottawa to watch musical performances and fireworks on the anniversary of Canadian confederation. This year, it will probably be difficult for police to distinguish between celebrators and convoy members – which is what protesters are banking on.

In late January, groups opposed to vaccine and mask mandates drove tractor-trailers and other large vehicles into Ottawa’s downtown core and set up camp. The ensuing three-week occupation of the capital city was a traumatic experience for many locals, who faced harassment, incessant noise and other unwelcome encounters, said Ariel Troster, a candidate for city council in Ottawa’s Somerset ward.

“Many people were driven from their homes, many were subjected to harassment, there were at least two cases where people defecated on people’s front steps. There were reports of apartment buildings where convoy people took over the laundry room and wouldn’t leave,” said Troster. “Not to mention the symbols of hatred, which were quite visible not just on the Hill but in the neighbourhoods.”

February 8, 2022

Group communications on Telegram, YouTube videos and other channels show convoy sympathisers believe in white replacement theory and other conspiracies. QAnon activists and propaganda were often seen at the wintertime occupation.

It ultimately cost the city $36m in policing costs and has resulted in a proposed class action lawsuit against protest organisers.

Now that Canada has dropped most mandates, the convoyers appear to be demanding Justin Trudeau’s resignation as prime minister. They have been gaining traction with Conservative politicians, recently having held a meeting with their “allies” in parliament.

The Ottawa police service (OPS) has pledged to foil any new attempt to occupy the city. The force is under immense pressure to get Canada Day right after its many failures to police the previous occupation.

June 30, 2021

At a police services board meeting on Monday, the interim OPS chief, Steve Bell, said a heightened police presence and road barricades limiting the number of vehicles permitted downtown may not be able to keep convoyers arriving on foot away, but it will prevent people from setting up camp.

“Canada Day’s a very important day to Canadians. It’s a day where we celebrate our country and all the good things in it. But people, when they come, they need to be lawful. And they need to be respectful of our community,” Bell said. (The Guardian)