The COVID-19 pandemic has been a global threat since early 2020, and various strategies have been posed to tackle the virus spread.

One of the popular methods is ‘Herd Immunity,’ where a significant amount of the population develops immunity to the virus, making it challenging for the virus to spread further.

What is Herd Immunity?

Herd Immunity, also known as population immunity, is a concept where a significant portion of the population- typically more than 60%- develops immunity to an infectious disease, making it more challenging for the pathogen to spread.

It ensures that the majority of the population is resistant to the virus, minimizing its spread.

The Controversial Herd Immunity Strategy

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, several countries implemented lockdown measures to prevent the virus’s spread, which consequently impacted the economy.

As a result, a herd immunity strategy was proposed as an alternative strategy to manage the pandemic.

A British scientist, Dr. Sunetra Gupta, believes that the best way to tackle the virus is by adopting the herd immunity strategy.

She posits that by letting the virus spread through the population, those who are at a lower risk would develop immunity to the virus while protecting the vulnerable groups.

However, this has been a highly controversial strategy, with critics arguing that it could result in a significant number of deaths, and it is not yet known how long the immunity would last.

The idea of adopting this strategy was met with criticism, with some critics arguing that it would amount to issuing a death sentence to the vulnerable groups.

Six out of Ten Sticking to the Virus

Recently, Dr. Gupta has advocated that six out of ten people should get the virus to acquire herd immunity. The idea behind this thinking is that it would speed up the process and help reduce the number of deaths. Dr.

Gupta has expressed her doubts about whether the virus can ever be eliminated or not.

However, the statement has ignited mixed reactions, with many calling it irresponsible and dangerous.

Sweden, which initially adopted the herd immunity strategy, has experienced some setbacks, with the country recording a higher death rate than its neighboring countries.

The world’s top health organizations, including the World Health Organization, have advised against such strategies, citing the risks and uncertainty surrounding them.

The WHO has repeatedly reiterated that vaccines are the best way to tackle the virus.

The Role of Vaccines in Herd Immunity

Herd immunity can be naturally achieved when the population is exposed to the virus, but vaccines can also be used to achieve herd immunity.

Vaccines help the body’s immune system produce antibodies that are specific to the virus, thus creating immunity to the virus. By vaccinating a significant portion of the population, herd immunity can be achieved, reducing the spread of the virus.

In conclusion, the herd immunity strategy has proved to be a controversial and sensitive topic in the fight against COVID-19. While some scientists, like Dr.

Gupta, advocate for the strategy, leading global health organizations warn against it, advising the use of vaccines. Ultimately, the most effective way to tackle the virus is by following guidelines from health experts, practicing proper hygiene, and being vaccinated.