Opposed to vaccines
Anti-vax is a term used to describe individuals who are against vaccinations or a specific vaccine, such as the COVID-19 vaccine. This term has been more commonly used since the 2020s, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic when some people strongly resisted getting vaccinated. “Vax” is simply a short form for “vaccine”, a term that became popular with the rise of the anti-vaccine movement.
Those who are anti-vax are often labeled as “anti-vaxxers”. Prior to the pandemic, these anti-vaxxers were usually prominent figures like celebrities (for instance, Jim Carrey), extreme natural health advocates, and religious extremists who were against vaccinating their kids for various reasons.
However, the COVID-19 pandemic saw a different kind of anti-vaxxer emerge. These individuals refused the COVID-19 vaccine due to concerns about insufficient testing or belief in a broader conspiracy theory involving government control or harm.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also led to the polarization of the anti-vax sentiment. It’s often linked with conservative groups who distrust the vaccine and advocate for their right to choose what goes into their body. The term anti-vax has also taken on a negative connotation as those who have been vaccinated view anti-vaxxers as selfish and obstructing a return to pre-pandemic norms.
Example for using ‘Anti-vax’ in a conversation
Did you hear about the new COVID vaccine?
Yeah, I’m not sure if I want to get it. I’m kind of anti-vax.
Oh, really? Why is that?
I just have some concerns about its safety and long-term effects.
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