Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers is facing intense media criticism over his decision to remain unvaccinated. The reigning NFL MVP tested positive for the virus on Wednesday and will miss Sunday’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Influencing his decision to reject the NFL’s bid to get all players vaccinated, Rodgers cited potential allergic reactions for refusing the two mRNA vaccines, according to the Associated Press. He is instead seeking alternative treatments to protect himself from the virus, the Packers star told the Pat MacAfee show on Friday.
“I’m not an anti-vax, flat-earther. I have an allergy to an ingredient that’s in the mRNA vaccines. I found a long-term immunization protocol to protect myself and I’m very proud of the research that went into that,” Rodgers said.
Rodgers may return to the team on Nov. 13, provided he shows a negative test.
In response to last week’s news, Rodgers received backlash and Twitter outrage for his decision to refuse vaccination and seek alternative treatments that make sense with his medication allergies.
On Saturday, Wisconsin-based health care company Preva Health, who has partnered with the Packers star for the past nine years, severed ties with Rodgers amid the controversy.
“Prevea Health remains deeply committed to protecting its patients, staff, providers, and communities amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes encouraging and helping all eligible populations to become vaccinated against COVID-19 to prevent the virus from further significantly impacting lives and livelihoods,” the company said Saturday in a statement posted on Twitter.
Rodgers reportedly blamed “woke culture or [a] crazed group of individuals” for the backlash he faced following the revelation he had not been fully vaccinated against the virus.
CNN’s Jake Tapper attacked Rodgers for what he says is misusing the term “woke.”
“He’s talking about facing cancellation. He’s not facing cancellation,” Tapper said on Friday’s episode of “The Lead.” “Talk to Colin Kaepernick about facing cancellation.”
However, Rodger’s concerns that have been the source of contention in the vaccine debate seem to be justified. Several instances of adverse medical reactions have been documented in response to the Covid-19 vaccinations. Rodgers also cited concerns about potential fertility issues as a potential side effect of vaccinations.
