These past 20 months have been overwhelmingly difficult due to the impact of the pandemic. Everyone has given up something for the greater good, and we all have worked together to slow the spread of COVID-19.
It’s easy to go down a path of negativity, to focus on the impact of the pandemic, the loss of life, and the stress this has caused all Idahoans.
However, I am cautiously optimistic about the light I see at the end of the tunnel. COVID-19 trends are going in the right direction with fewer cases, hospitalizations, and a decrease in percent positivity in most regions of Idaho.
As we approach this season of gratitude, this week dedicated to giving thanks, I am thankful for the healthcare workers, teachers and students, families, business owners, public health officials, and the many others in Idaho who have stood together against this pandemic. You are appreciated.
Finally, during this season of thanks, I would encourage all of you to take time to recharge, spend time with your families, and do those things that bring you joy. I wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving.
Correcting misinformation and disinformation: Can Idaho healthcare providers vaccinate children without parental consent?
The short answer is no. There is a message circulating on social media indicating that healthcare providers can give vaccines to children without parental consent, and it is DHW’s responsibility to continue to correct misinformation.
In Idaho, minors must have consent from a parent or guardian to receive a vaccination unless the minor meets a statutory exemption or obtains court approval to provide their own consent. That only happens in rare cases.
As a reminder, the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine has emergency use authorization to be given to anyone 5 years of age or older.
I hope you all have a safe, healthy, and happy Thanksgiving season. My next blog will be available on Dec. 3.
DHW Voice 
The so-called pandemic was not the problem. The false narrative cloaking it and the hysterical response to it has been the real problem. Big Pharma, Big Tech, and Big Gov have been the clear winners in this engineered crime against humanity.
However, the trend may be taking a turn for the better. Recently, a popular actress (at least in some circles), with approximately three million twitter followers, conducted an informal poll asking her followers whether they would have their 5-11 year old children take the experimental jab. There were 100,000+ responses with 90%+ replying “Never.” These respondents, without complex formulas, fancy analytics, or the help of creative statisticians, arrived at a very intelligent conclusion. If their child isn’t jabbed, their child will be 100% protected against adverse reactions.
What is amazing about this poll and what gives it credibility is that her followers would typically be consumers of mainstream media news. That indicates the covid cult narrative is finished and we’ll be on to the next fear du jour but with a much smaller and less attentive audience. Humanity is winning! That is something to be truly grateful for this Thanksgiving season and beyond.