Gov. Asa Hutchinson brought his series of “Covid Conversations” to Batesville’s Community Center Monday night.
This was the second stop on a statewide tour to discuss the new surge of COVID-19 cases sweeping through areas of Arkansas and to encourage full vaccinations against the virus to help stop the spread — particularly with the new Delta variant of the disease emerging in the U.S.
Hutchinson told attendees with Independence County’s low vaccination rate (currently around 29 to 30 percent), it’s essential to spread the message that the vaccines are safe and work.
One audience member asked why the public should trust the government regarding the possible long-term effects of the vaccine. Hutchinson said his team and other officials have to be honest with the people and do their best to combat such hesitancy in receiving the vaccine — but ultimately, it’s up to the individual to make the decision.
The governor said those with skepticism about vaccinations might feel better if they go to their trusted sources first — such as their medical doctor or clinic — and not utilize the internet to receive information.
Hutchinson acknowledged there were mixed messages from the government during the initial phase of the pandemic along with online misinformation, but he stressed to the Batesville audience that the Federal Drug Administration is the “gold standard” across the world when it comes to vaccination information.
White River Health System CEO Gary Paxson noted at the meeting that almost 100 percent of the organization’s physicians have received the vaccine and believe in its science, while Dr. J.D. Allen said there were currently 27 COVID patients in White River Medical Center — and all had not been vaccinated. He added there were no cases at WRMC of a patient suffering from the side effects of receiving the vaccine.
Health officials say vaccinated patients still have a stronger chance at fighting the new variant and not being hospitalized than those who are not fully vaccinated.
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