Introduction
Vaccines are essential for protecting individuals from diseases, and the Orthodox Jewish community of Brooklyn is no exception. This paper will discuss the vaccine and vaccination concept in the Orthodox Jewish community of Brooklyn.
Role of vaccination
According to the World Health Organization, vaccines utilize the body’s natural defenses to protect individuals from getting different harmful diseases. The body will produce antibodies to fight the germ when exposed to it through vaccination. These antibodies will stay in the body, so when the body reencounters the germ, it should not get as sick. Vaccines are vital in close-knit communities like the Orthodox Jewish communities of Brooklyn, as sickness can spread quickly due to crowded conditions and large families living in small apartments (WHO, 2021). a smaller space.
Orthodox views on vaccinations
The Orthodox Jewish community, particularly in Brooklyn, has been surrounded by controversy due to the three vaccines MMR, HPV, and COVID. In the United States, reported measles cases for 2020 jumped to an all-time high since 1992 of 1,282, with most cases concentrated in the under-vaccinated Orthodox communities in New York City (WHO, 2020). According to the Jewish religious laws, Halacha, the concept of “pikuach nefesh” orders preserving life over almost all other religious beliefs and responsibilities (Muravsky et al., 2021). it has been supported by many religious leaders, who have advocated for universal vaccination, even on the Sabbath, dating back to the smallpox outbreak. In 2018, two major Orthodox organizations put out a statement supporting vaccination, accountability for well-being, and averting sabotage and ailment to others (Orthodox Union, 2018). Rabbi Aaron Glatt further emphasized this, saying that it is essential for all Jews to vaccinate against preventable and deadly illnesses, such as measles and COVID-19. Ultra-orthodox Rabbi Weiss also spoke out, saying anyone who refrains from vaccinating when the community can prevent outbreaks or pandemics is acting immorally (Times of Israel, 2020). In response to the 2018 measles outbreak, the cardinal rabbinic adjudicator of the Chicago Rabbinical Council has also put out a statement saying that every member of the community, including children, must get vaccinated (Muravsky et al., 2021).
Views of Covid 19 vaccine acceptance
Rabbis from the Orthodox abutment and the Rabbinical conclave of America have declared their support for the COVID-19 vaccine, claiming its benefits outweigh any potential risks. It was expressed in the “COVID-19 Vaccine Guidance” (Orthodox Union, 2020). Numerous other Jewish organizations have also been vocal in backing the vaccine, stressing the concerns of wearing the veil, washing hands, and preserving social disjunction to avoid spreading the virus.
Reason for vaccine hesitancy
One of the main reasons is the notion of “pikuach nefesh,” an ancient Jewish law order preserving life over almost every other religious belief and responsibility (Muravsky et al., 2021). This concept has been interpreted in numerous ways, and some Orthodox Jews believe that vaccines are against their religious beliefs and could be potentially harmful. Another reason is the need for more assurance in the medical association and the authority, possibly due to past experiences of discrimination and mistrust, leading to a lack of confidence in the vaccine (Morgan et al., 2022).
Risk of vaccine hesitancy
Vaccine hesitancy can increase preventable illnesses (Stein et al.,2020). Additionally, it can lead to the spread of misinformation and false beliefs, which can further lead to a decrease in vaccine uptake (Garett & Young, 2021). It can be hazardous in close-knit communities, as illnesses can spread quickly due to crowded conditions and large families living in small apartments.
Sources of vaccine information and communication
There are numerous sources of vaccine information and communication available to the public. These include the World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, media outlets such as newspapers and television, and medical professionals such as doctors and nurses (Osuagwu et al., 2023). Additionally, Jewish organizations such as the Orthodox Union and the Rabbinical Council of America provide guidance and support for vaccinations (Muravsky et al., 2021).
Evaluating the credibility and accuracy of sources
The credibility and accuracy of vaccine information sources should always be considered. Not all information is created equal; some sources may be biased or contain false information (Stasiuk et al.,2021). It is also essential to look at the source’s credentials and evaluate the information’s quality.
Role, responsibility, and engagement of relevant sectors
The role of the government and education sectors is essential to advance vaccination compliance. Governments should provide accurate and up-to-date vaccine information and ensure policies are in place to encourage vaccine uptake (Pilichowsk et al.,2021). The education sector should also ensure that students receive accurate vaccine information and provide resources for healthcare workers to help address any hesitancy or misinformation.
Proposed communication strategy
Given the challenges to vaccine acceptance, it is essential to have a communication strategy tailored to the Orthodox Jewish community of Brooklyn. In order to do this, it is essential to have a multisectoral approach that involves the government, education, and healthcare sectors (Carmody et al., 2021). It is also essential to have a communication strategy tailored to the community’s needs, such as using religious leaders and cultural figures to emphasize the importance of vaccines, providing accurate information in various languages, and using various media outlets to spread the message (Adebesi et al., 2021).
Recommendations
In order to advance compliance with vaccination, it is crucial to have a communication strategy tailored to the needs of the Orthodox Jewish community of Brooklyn. This strategy should involve a multisectoral approach that involves the government, education, and healthcare sectors.
Conclusion
Vaccines are essential for protecting individuals from diseases, and the Orthodox Jewish community of Brooklyn is no exception. Vaccine hesitancy is a significant issue in this community, and it is crucial to have a communication strategy tailored to the community’s needs. This strategy should involve a multisectoral approach that involves the government, education, and healthcare sectors. It is also vital to provide accurate information and to utilize various media outlets and technology to reach a larger audience. By having a tailored communication strategy, it is possible to increase vaccine uptake in the Orthodox Jewish community of Brooklyn.
References
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