Confidence in natural immunity, lack of confidence in vaccine cited; Health Department says ‘good health is a shared effort’
By Guy Page
With winter nearing, Vermont health officials are urging residents five years old and older to be vaccinated against the flu, COVID-19, and RSV.
State data show that 25% of Vermonters have received the vaccine in 2024-25 season, compared to 26% in 2022-23. The highest percentage (33%) is in Chittenden County, the lowest in rural Essex County (11%).
Reasons given for not receiving the Covid-19 vaccine include confidence in natural immunity, and lack of confidence in the vaccine, according to comments on VDC’s Facebook page.
“Vaccination helps keep our communities strong,” Health Commissioner Rick Hildebrant, MD, said in an October 31 statement. “By staying up to date on recommended vaccines, we not only reduce our own risk of severe illness, but we also help protect those around us.”
State officials say this year’s flu and COVID-19 vaccines have been updated to target the most recent circulating strains. The shots are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Immunizations for RSV are also widely available for pregnant people, infants, and older adults.
People at higher risk of severe illness — including older Vermonters, young children, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems — are especially encouraged to get vaccinated as respiratory viruses begin to circulate more widely, the Health Department said.
On November 1, VDC posted the health department statement on its Facebook page and asked readers this question: “Do you plan to get vaccinated for Covid? Why, or why not?”
The post has 5,000 views and 69 comments. Most but all of the comments respond in the negative. Some highlighted the virtues of natural immunity:
“Absolutely no to COVID/flu/shingles/rsv. . . natural immunity works,” said Lynn.
Others expressed low confidence in the vaccine:
“More and more confirmed studies show vaccine injuries. Please research before putting this into your body,” said Deedee.
This year, the Health Department issued updated COVID-19 vaccine recommendations to make access easier. Anyone age 5 and older can receive both flu and COVID-19 vaccines at most pharmacies. Health care providers continue to offer vaccinations as well, including for children under 5.
Officials note that most insurance plans cover immunizations, but adults under 65 who lack insurance or whose plans don’t cover vaccines can receive them at no cost through Local Health Offices.
Like other medicines, vaccines can cause side effects, typically mild and short-lived, such as soreness at the injection site or fatigue, the Health Department said.
“Good health is a shared effort,” Hildebrant said. “Getting vaccinated, washing hands often, and staying home when sick all help us care for ourselves and each other. If you have questions about vaccines, talk with your health care provider or pharmacist.”
The Health Department continues to monitor flu season, track COVID-19 year-round, and publish an annual vaccination dashboard. More information is available at HealthVermont.gov/StayHealthy.