Michigan congressional candidate faces criticism for pro-vaccine stance

A Michigan candidate for Congress faced criticism for supporting vaccines and refusing to state that COVID-19 vaccines should be pulled from the market. This occurred after the candidate responded to a social media post listing other politicians who oppose COVID-19 vaccines. Some social media users claimed the candidate is a supporter of “evil pharma” and is “complicit in genocide” due to his pro-vacine stance.

Risk level: Medium

Fact checking sources: While conversations about this incident are unlikely to arise in a clinical setting, social media posts equating support for vaccines with “genocide” may discourage Michigan patients from getting the updated COVID-19 vaccine. The current surge in COVID-19 cases elevates the risk. Messaging may emphasize that COVID-19 vaccines have been rigorously tested and have been determined to be safe. Adverse reactions are extremely rare. The benefits of vaccination outweigh any potential risks, because staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccines helps to prevent severe illness, death, and long COVID.