Dear Aunty,

My boyfriend is refusing to get vaccinated against Covid-19. He won’t listen to my arguments. What can I do about this? Janet

Dear Janet,

Fear, misinformation and misunderstandings put tremendous strain on individuals. Psychologists tell us the best thing we can do for anyone experiencing stress is to be there for them, and let them know you care by being willing to listen. Defending an argument in a formal debate is stimulating fun, arguing over a serious issue with someone you love is not fun. Persons who go against the mainstream have reasons. Empathy brings better results than arguing. Jesus respected individuals.

Show love in all you do, Aunty

Dear Aunty,

Do you think it is against medical ethics to force someone to be vaccinated? Tiaki

Dear Tiaki,

Doctors know intimate details about patients. No two humans are exactly the same in body or mind. Consider peanut butter: most people like it and some don’t; a few can die from it and there are some who find the smell so unpleasant they live with the constant fear that any contact with peanuts will harm them. People with phobias don’t want this made common knowledge.

Professional confidentiality required doctors to not disclose private information without the patient’s permission. Our Human Rights Act protected us from undergoing medical procedures without our consent. Doctors were not forced to perform medical procedures they did not agree with. Government rulings have abruptly removed these safeguards. GPs are particularly compromised as they are in a position to best know their patients. Vaccinations are safe and beneficial for the majority. But there are people so seriously affected by past traumas that they can’t tolerate any invasive medical procedure without risk to their mental health. There are a variety of underlying conditions that a vaccination could make worse. Should the Government marginalise people because they refuse a medical procedure? Conscientious objectors say no. Mandates have trapped doctors into the ethical dilemma of either serving the majority or supporting a vulnerable minority. Ethical decisions are complex. Personal dilemmas require a personal response.

Be open to understanding different perspectives, Aunty

Dear Aunty,

Can praying help with Covid? Josh

Dear Josh,

Prayer can always help if we let it. Prayer enables us to release feelings in a positive way and encourages us to find practical ways to help with difficulties. Covid brings fear to communities. Whether vaccinated or not we can lessen fear by boosting our immune systems with vitamins C and D. Eat lots of fruit and vegetables for vitamin C. We make vitamin D from being in sunshine and it's available as supplements. Praying calms body and soul when we give thanks for our blessings and uphold others before God.

Promote happiness, Aunty