California firefighter’s dismissal sparks outrage online

One hundred firefighters who were suspended for refusing to comply with COVID-19 vaccine requirements filed a lawsuit against the state of California. In response to this lawsuit, some social media users are raising concerns about the constitutionality of vaccine mandates. Others are expressing skepticism about the COVID-19 vaccine’s efficacy and concerns about vaccine side effects.

Risk level: Low

Recommendation: Online conversations about this lawsuit promote false claims about COVID-19 vaccine safety and may discourage California patients from getting the updated COVID-19 vaccine. It is recommended doctors in California be prepared to answer questions about the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines. Messaging may emphasize that COVID-19 vaccines have been rigorously tested and monitored over three years and have been determined to be safe. The benefits of staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccines outweigh any potential risks, because getting vaccinated reduces the risk of COVID-19-related hospitalization, death, and long COVID.