Police Officers in Various States are Declining the COVID Vaccine

As the COVID-19 vaccine becomes increasingly accessible to more individuals, it is concerning to observe that some members of law enforcement, who were prioritized for vaccination across the nation, are choosing not to receive their shots. From Boston to Chicago, various reports highlight vaccine hesitancy and low vaccination rates within local police departments.

Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, The Boston Globe reported that 845 members of the Massachusetts State Police opted not to receive the vaccine when it was offered at state clinics. ABC News noted that this represents around 30% of both sworn and civilian officers within the force. However, the Director of Media Communications for MSP commented that this figure does not necessarily indicate that those individuals have not been vaccinated; it merely means they declined the vaccine provided by the state police department. They could have sought vaccination at private clinics, but it remains unclear if they did.

Chicago

In Chicago, a local report indicated that fewer than 40% of employees within the Chicago Police Department responded affirmatively to a survey regarding their interest in receiving the vaccine. Subsequently, only 37% of department members received the vaccine as of January 22, 2021. Updated statistics have not been released since then as vaccination opportunities expanded in the city.

Alabama

Meanwhile, a February 12, 2021 article on AL.com revealed that various police agencies in Alabama reported that less than half of their officers had been vaccinated since eligibility began in mid-January. Gulf Shores Police Chief Ed Delmore expressed concern that some officers, who were most worried about contracting the virus, were the same ones opting against the vaccine. Additionally, many officers believe they don’t need the vaccine after having contracted COVID-19, although it is still uncertain how long natural immunity lasts.

Correctional Officers

A recent AP report indicated that correctional officers are also hesitant to get vaccinated. Surveys from Massachusetts, California, Rhode Island, and Iowa revealed that between 30% and over half of prison guards would receive the vaccine, which is far below the levels necessary for herd immunity. In a Miami prison, as of March 11, 2021, fewer than half of the facility’s 240 employees had completed their vaccination, with many citing concerns over the vaccine’s effectiveness and side effects, according to Kareen Troitino, the local corrections officer union president.

Concerns for Public Health

This situation is troubling, especially as many police departments across the U.S. are allowing officers the choice of whether or not to wear masks while on duty. Given their role to “protect and serve” the community, the low vaccination rates and optional mask policies are particularly alarming.

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In summary, various police departments across the United States are experiencing significant vaccine hesitancy among their officers. Despite being prioritized for vaccination, many officers are choosing not to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, raising concerns about public health and safety.