The first question is whether the average New Yorker or Seattle resident is more threatened by an understaffed fire or police force than an unvaccinated firefighter or police officer. If you dial 911 because you’re being robbed or attacked, you’re not going to say, “but only send officers that are vaccinated!” If your house is on fire, you’re not going to say to the dispatcher, “My house is burning down, but before you send the trucks, keep in mind that I don’t find natural immunity sufficient!”

Almost 80 percent of U.S. adults have at least one shot! When can we conclude that while we would prefer that everyone got vaccinated, those who have not gotten vaccinated are not a menace to the rest of us? When will cities be willing to recognize that natural immunity from infection ought to be a part of these discussions as well?

We know fully vaccinated people can still catch the virus and can still spread the virus. (Thankfully, vaccination greatly reduces the impact of infection.) Why are cities firing fully-trained, fully-qualified, experienced firemen and cops and other city workers over a refusal to get vaccinated? Isn’t this cutting off your nose to spite your face?