NMA Statement on State of Florida Vaccine Proposal
The Dangerous Consequences of Vaccine Misinformation
For Immediate Release:
Jan. 8, 2024
“COVID-19 has resurged at significant rates and poses potentially life-threatening complications for adults, children and infants across the U.S. Of even greater concern, is the current leadership in the state of Florida calling for the halt of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine distribution while citing misleading and inaccurate information, instilling fear, confusion and resistance in providers and patients. This proposal has dangerous implications, which directly affect the communities which suffered the highest rates of morbidity and mortality during the pandemic. Importantly, these are the communities which will highly benefit from receiving COVID-19 immunizations.”
The National Medical Association (NMA) strongly advises that all residents in the state of Florida, and the entire nation, receive the updated COVID-19 vaccines. According to the National Institute of Health, COVID-19 disproportionately affects Black, Indigenous and other underserved communities, with Black American Covid death rates being a third higher than that of Latinos and double that of Causcasian Americans. Black Americans also presently face hesitancy due to the longstanding history of systemic racism in health care. Further, the NAACP issued a travel advisory in Florida to Black and other disadvantaged communities. The recent remarks made by Florida leadership continues to put Black lives at risk.
In response to the Florida statement, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stated that the vaccines are safe and effective. Further, the vaccines provide increased protection against present variants that have emerged or resurfaced, resulting in improved health outcomes. It is imperative that we continue to properly educate patients about the significance that COVID-19 vaccines have on the prevention of serious illness, hospitalizations and death.
###
About the National Medical Association:
The NMA is the nation’s oldest and largest organization representing Black physicians and health professionals in the U.S. and promotes the collective interests of physicians and patients of African descent. We serve as the voice of Black physicians and a leading voice for parity in medicine, elimination of health disparities and promotion of optimal health. To learn more about the NMA, please visit https://www.nmanet.org/.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Sherelyn Weber
682-597-8733
media@bdaviscomm.com
