Unvaxxed: Trust, Truth and the Rise of Vaccine Outrage

Unvaxxed examines the reasons behind vaccine hesitancy in Australia and how uncertainty and misinformation have impacted the country's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Written by award-winning science journalist Dyani Lewis, the book explores the history of anti-vaxxing in Australia, the role of conspiracy theories and white supremacy movements, and the potential consequences of vaccine refusal for families.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 01 June 2022
Publisher: Hardie Grant Books

Unvaxxed is a comprehensive and timely exploration of vaccine hesitancy and its impact on the Australian experience of the COVID-19 pandemic. Written by acclaimed science journalist Dyani Lewis, this second book in The Crikey Read series by Crikey and Hardie Grant Books delves into the complex factors that have contributed to this phenomenon.

The book begins by examining the rise of anti-vaxx protests, the "scamdemic," and the proliferation of disproven home remedies. It raises questions about how we arrived at this point and explores the realities of lockdowns, the erosion of trust in government, and the influence of these factors on the history of anti-vaxxing in Australia.

Unvaxxed reveals that anti-vaxx sentiment has found unexpected alliances in the QAnon conspiracy cult, white supremacy movements, and the wellness community. It explores how these groups have exploited the fear and uncertainty surrounding vaccines to spread misinformation and promote their agendas.

The book also delves into the human fallout from vaccine refusal for families torn apart by the issue. It sheds light on the emotional toll on individuals and families who have chosen not to vaccinate, as well as the challenges they face in navigating a society that increasingly relies on vaccination for public health and safety.

Unvaxxed offers a nuanced and empathetic perspective on vaccine hesitancy. It provides a wealth of information and insights from experts in the field, as well as personal stories from those on the frontlines of the pandemic. The book aims to educate and inform readers about the scientific and sociocultural effects of vaccine misinformation, and to offer a roadmap for a way forward for Australia in 2022.

The Crikey Read series, from Crikey and Hardie Grant Books, is renowned for its commitment to independent journalism and its fearless exploration of the issues of the day. Unvaxxed is a testament to this commitment, providing a comprehensive and thought-provoking analysis of a critical public health issue.

In conclusion, Unvaxxed is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of vaccine hesitancy and its impact on society. It is a timely and compassionate exploration of a topic that has become increasingly relevant in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. By providing a balanced and informed perspective, Unvaxxed offers a roadmap for a way forward that prioritizes public health and safety while respecting individual rights and freedoms.

Weight: 146g
Dimension: 208 x 136 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781743798829