Thought of the Day - June 3 2021 - Vaccine Bribes

Last month we talked about "Vaccine Perks", companies coupling their marketing campaigns with vaccination rollouts ( Thought of the Day - May 14 2021 - Vaccine Perks ). Now things have gone to the next level, full-blown "Vaccine Bribes". Some seem innocent enough, for example, after Canada became the first country to approve the Pfizer vaccine for those over twelve, Ontario is offering free ice cream to children who, parental consent or no, get vaccinated at a school program. Fire up that old ice cream truck!

But, if what is now happening in the US is any indication, things are about to get way more interesting. With vaccination rates waning in the US, plateauing at about 50% of the population, government agencies are looking for bigger ways to promote getting vaccinated.

How about getting vaccinated at a baseball game to get free admission? This is the brainchild of NY State Governor Como. Get your shot and join the crowd. Guess this is a modern-day acid trip, hopefully, you'll have a good ride.

How about getting a free ride at college? Also NY State, kids aged 12 to 17 will have a chance to win a full ride to public universities and colleges in New York.

How about giving kids lottery tickets? While children under 18 are not allowed lottery tickets, by getting vaccinated kids 12 and older will be entered to win $5,000 in cash and other prizes in twice-weekly drawings conducted by the Delaware Lottery.

How about giving kids cash? West Virginia says it hopes their $100 "saving bond" payment for those aged 16 to 35 will "motivate" the young to get a shot.

What about if you are in the US illegally? No problem in Oregon you can get a shot, get entered in the state's vaccine database and are eligible to win a prize. Hey, the pandemic could mean a new beginning.

In short, if you have not had a shot in the US and are thinking of selling your "vaccination virginity" to the highest bidder, as Smokey Robinson sings, "you better shop around".

Cheers

Cliff