For a time, it seemed like we had the Covid pandemic under control. Many of us adhered to social distancing and mask mandates, allowing life to inch back toward “normal.” Kids were returning to school (thank goodness). We were swapping our pajamas for daytime attire and trading in our well-worn slippers for shoes with actual soles. But now, we find ourselves in a different situation.
Current Covid numbers are concerning. Nearly two years since the virus first appeared, we aren’t where we envisioned. Just last week, the U.S. reported 115,862 new cases. It’s not just “Covid” anymore; we’re now facing variants like Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Delta—who knows how many more will follow in the Greek alphabet?
While many were willing to don masks to protect themselves and others, we now have more than just masks—we have vaccines. Yet, only 58.2% of Americans are vaccinated, and about 25% have outright refused the vaccine. The remaining 27.8% are uncertain, and without convincing them, eradicating Covid seems unlikely. So how do we encourage this hesitant group to roll up their sleeves and get vaccinated?
The CDC and health experts have bombarded the public with information about the vaccines’ safety and efficacy. Still, it appears that more than just facts are needed to sway those on the fence. Different strategies are being employed, from public endorsements by celebrities to catchy yard signs proclaiming vaccine support. Dolly Parton even put a spin on her classic hit, replacing “Jolene” with “vaccine” and humorously urging the hesitant to not be “chicken squat.”
Incentives for vaccination are gaining traction, ranging from the mundane to the extravagant, appealing to various individuals. For instance, Teton County, Wyoming, is offering “shots for swag,” while Indiana tempts with a box of Girl Scout cookies (not even Thin Mints!). On a grander scale, New Jersey is offering free beer, and Krispy Kreme has been giving away donuts for those vaccinated.
Some states have more substantial incentives, such as West Virginia, which offers full college scholarships for youth aged 12 to 17, and Illinois, where residents can enter a $10 million vaccine lottery. California is providing a total of $10.5 million in prizes, while Michigan has daily drawings worth $50,000.
Research suggests that these incentives are indeed making a difference. A study by the U.C.L.A. Covid-19 Health and Politics Project found that one-third of unvaccinated individuals stated that a cash incentive would increase their likelihood of getting vaccinated. Ohio’s Vax-a-Million lottery resulted in a 28% increase in vaccination rates within a week of its announcement.
While some skeptics argue that incentives are merely a form of bribery, I believe that if they work, they are worth it. It’s true that not every incentive will appeal to every individual. One person might be swayed by a box of Girl Scout cookies, while another might be attracted to vacation vouchers. Some anti-vaxxers might remain unfazed even by substantial rewards. I wish, however, that the hope of returning to pre-Covid normalcy would be enough for everyone.
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