I sort of disagree with how we handled the covid vax distribution, and hear me out as to why.
On the surface, it seems better to vax the old people first, as they are vulnerable and all that. But let’s dig deeper.
The older people have more limited infection vectors as their movement is often restricted. They also tend to be retired, and/or already in care facilities. So while they are physically more vulnerable, I believe it would have been more efficient to cut off potential vectors than vaxing them first.
Healthcare workers and nonmedical staff of care homes, and all public facing workers, from the highest level HR positions, to teachers, to fast food workers and clerks, to your friendly janitorial staff. That way, you’re casting a wider net and cutting off my infections than you would by selective targeting of the elders. These are people who are constantly being exposed to potential vectors.
Then there’s longhaulers. Let’s face it, and this is going to sound awful but it’s the truth, long haulers are going to put more of a strain on the medical system than old people who are in their twilight years. A 30 year old with permanent lung damage is going to be a greater burden on the system than an 80 year old who likely only has a handful of years left anyway.
Preventing more adult and middle aged long haulers is, pound for pound, higher utility.
I know this sounds harsh and maybe a little cold, but its something we have to consider. The US medical system was already teetering on the brink of failure, we have no idea the kind of strain these long haul cases are going to put on it.
20 to 50 might be less likely to die, but they are more likely to suffer long term effects from the virus, which will put pressure on the medical system, reduce their efficacy in the employment sector, and generally come at the expense of their happiness and quality of life. Like it or not, an 80-90 year old has lived a full life. A 35yro parent should be able to pick up their kids without losing their breath, and a 45yro professional shouldn’t have to reduce their career because of brain fog.
Just my opinion.
