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Share unused vaccines with Canada, Mexico

DEAR EDITOR:

The purpose of this letter is to request that additional COVID-19 vaccines be sent by the federal government to Canada and Mexico for use by their populations.

With the pandemic having disrupted life in general over the past two years across the world, it remains important that the United States provide support in a global capacity to others. Helping other nations protect the health and well-being of those living there should be a priority. By assisting other governments with their vaccination efforts America would assist with creating a safer world that further combats the danger posed by the pandemic.

An initial reaction to the idea of sharing our vaccine supply would, by some, be one of outrage. But I think that attitude, while understandable in a certain capacity, is not necessary. If the supply of vaccines here is low, then you would prioritize the population here and not export large amounts of the shots. The reality is that over the past year some vaccine stockpiles in the U.S. have come close to expiring, as reported by media outlets such as The Associated Press. There is no reason to waste resources when there are so many in need of what we have in abundance. We should share what we have.

Canada and Mexico are our neighbors, and you should do what is reasonably within your power to help your neighbor. If someone wanted additional reasons for why those countries in particular should get more vaccines, then it should be noted that both nations help America in significant ways, from labor to trade. And if anyone believed in focusing more on donating to other places then that is fine as well. The United States has already donated large amounts of vaccines to other countries, and it should continue to do so until the pandemic is effectively controlled. The cost of such a campaign is more than worth it no matter how it is analyzed.

Providing vaccine support to Mexico and Canada should be an important mission of the United States of America. I am grateful that this country has the scientific capacity as well as the potential to help people all over the world.

ROBERT HELTZEL

Niles

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