Help OC reach COVID-19 herd immunity

Stu News Newport May 18, 2021

Last week Dr. Regina Chinsio-Kwong, a deputy health officer for the Orange County Health Care Agency, reported the county may not reach herd immunity against COVID-19 by the Fourth of July. At the current rate people are getting vaccinated, I’m guessing this means OC won’t reach its goal until Labor Day. 

Would a full court press by home-grown businesses and the county Republican Party help? If so, what would an “all hands on deck” campaign look like? Consider these five options Newport:    

First, Ralphs, Gelson’s, Whole Foods, Mother’s Market, Stater Bros. and Trader Joe’s match Pavilions’ offer of 10 percent discounts on groceries with proof of vaccination. 

Second, OC’s fast food giants, In-N-Out, Carl’s Jr., Del Taco and Taco Bell, give away free burgers and tacos to customers who get their shots. 

Third, Vans, a local leader in the competitive footwear industry, creates a special “run to get vaccinated” commercial for current and prospective customers.

Fourth, the Angels join the Dodgers by offering 20 percent discounts on tickets. 

And last, Orange County’s Republican Party publicly urges its 500,000 faithful – upwards of 40 percent of whom say they are reluctant to get vaccinated – to roll up their sleeves. Imagine 200,000 GOP voters proudly walking around with Band-Aids on their shoulders between now and the 4th.

Around the country, the New York Yankees and the National Football League have joined Krispy Kreme, White Castle, McDonald’s, Budweiser, Nathan’s Hot Dogs, Target and many other businesses offering fans and customers incentives to get their COVID shots. 

Newport residents can play a vital role in helping Orange County achieve herd immunity before Labor Day.

-DF