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Herd immunity and polio

When I was a child, I remember the fear of getting polio at this time of year and summer. Although, I would consider the COVID-19 virus far more deadly, the polio virus was equally deadly and feared back then. When the Salk vaccine came available there was a massive vaccination program which resulted in herd immunity and the eradication of polio in the US and other developed countries. An outstanding success story.

Somehow, as I reflect back on the age of polio and its successful eradication, I am deeply mystified and disappointed by those who don’t give a damn toward trying to eradicate the COVID-19 virus. The anti- vax people, the anti-mask people and especially those who firmly believe it’s 100% OK for their behavior to promote the culling (slaughter) of health care workers, first responders, teachers, essential workers and so many loved ones by a deadly virus. Their so-called constitutional freedom! Really?

Janet C. Smith

Spokane

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