Dr. Fauci shouldn't have publicly dismissed herd immunity

We need to follow the science and evidence. Over 90 percent are not in the denier camp. If fence-sitters climb down and get their shots we can get to community protection. These people are hesitant, not militant; they are mostly caring citizens, many of whom consistently vaccinate themselves against the flu and their children against childhood diseases. They do not differ greatly from people who have already been vaccinated. Effective messages, messengers, incentives, and media can reach them. We need to spend more resources finding these levers and less time sweating over epidemiological details. An ever-present anti-vaccine movement thrives on social media platforms by challenging the very reality of Covid-19 and the need for vaccines that prevent it. We can’t let this stand, and we can’t afford mixed messaging. however well intentioned, that aids their destructive work. Herd immunity has aspirational value to us all. We need a well-informed leadership and a populace that does not give in to COVID-19. The vaccine can still be the showstopper Fauci said it was 13 months ago. Herd immunity is a goal we can achieve this year if we have the will to do so. Our concern about headlines like in Monday’s New York Times is that they take our eyes off the prize. The only goal that matters is to stem COVID-19, stay safe, and return to the ordinary lives we yearn for. We’ve got to roll up our sleeves, get the jab, and get the job done before it is too late.