A few weeks ago, we talked with Dr. Anthony Fauci on the Iowa Agribusiness Radio Network about the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on rural America. The feedback that I have received in the form of comments, and let?s call them interesting private messages have been eye-opening. There is blatant mistrust of the ?science? from much of rural America.
But why is that? Dr. Scott Stienecker is a Director of Epidemiology and Infection Prevention at Parkview Health Systems in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He was kind enough to speak with farm broadcasters about how the situation is unique for rural Americans, but where it is also smart to be taking precautions.
Is it because we view our lives differently from our urban cousins? Well, there is an obvious lifestyle difference, but there are some ways we can help prevent transmission, even though we don?t live as close together.
Dr. Stienecker says that the vaccinations for Covid, are like that of the flu. People who are vaccinated can still get it. That is not disputed, and nobody questions it during flu season. However, vaccinations are proving to mitigate the symptoms and people are recovering faster.
His hospital has witnessed a very marked difference in the severity of covid for vaccinated vs unvaccinated patients. And that is something that is a larger stress for rural healthcare facilities.
Dr. Stienecker adds that COVID fatigue has long been a problem. People are sick of hearing about it. However, that doesn?t fight off the infection.
Dr. Stienecker assures rural Americans that they are safe in getting vaccinated.
For more information, visit your local doctor, visit vaccines.gov, or check the CDC websites.
