CES 2022's Vaccine Requirement
**CES 2022: Reflections on a Changed World**
The year 2022 brought us back to CES (Consumer Electronics Show), but things have certainly changed since the last conference in January 2020. As we navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic, the world has undergone significant transformations. One of the most fascinating aspects is how quickly people pulled back from certain activities and others pushed forward. The pandemic has reshaped our society in ways that are both intriguing and concerning.
One of the key changes is the shift towards remote work. Many people have realized that working from home is not only possible but also preferable for some. This has led to drastic changes in various sectors, including conferences like CES. While events like Adobe MAX and others are still happening, they are increasingly moving online or becoming hybrid events. For instance, Adobe MAX announced its dates for October, but it will be entirely virtual and free again.
However, not all events are adapting to this new reality. The WPPi (World Protection and Processing Industry) conference is still proceeding as planned. It remains a vestige of what once was, much like malls and other public spaces that have struggled to adapt to the post-pandemic world.
**The Aftermath of CES 2020**
Looking back at CES 2020, it seems like a distant memory now. March 2020 marked the beginning of lockdowns and remote work for many, including myself. I recall feeling nervous about attending such events, especially after seeing how COVID-19 impacted others.
Larry, who runs a podcast called "The Larry Magon Show," shared an interesting anecdote. He mentioned that during CES 2020, someone on his team contracted COVID-19 and was quite unwell. Despite this, none of the attendees got sick because they took necessary precautions like antibody testing. This experience highlights how even in the face of uncertainty, people can adapt and find ways to mitigate risks.
**Vaccination Mandates and Public Policy**
Fast forward to 2022, and we are still grappling with the implications of COVID-19 on our daily lives. Vaccination mandates have become a hot topic, with organizations like the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) requiring proof of vaccination for entry into their events. Masks are also being mandated in indoor public spaces.
The CTA is considering whether to accept positive antibody tests as an alternative requirement but has deferred this decision until closer to the event date. This cautious approach reflects the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic and the ever-changing nature of COVID-19 variants, such as the Lambda variant.
**Personal Reflections on the Pandemic**
Reflecting on my own experiences, I remember a particularly challenging faculty meeting where we discussed the requirements for student vaccinations. Many colleagues were concerned about their children who couldn't be vaccinated due to age restrictions. This has led to a lot of anxiety and frustration, especially as we try to navigate a world that feels uncertain.
The pandemic has also made us question our trust in public health officials and policies. The science is constantly evolving, and what was once considered certain may now seem uncertain. This shift has left many feeling disillusioned, much like when they "see the sausage being made" and realize it's not as straightforward as they thought.
**The Fear of Returning to Normal**
As we look towards the future, there's a growing desire to return to normalcy. However, this comes with its own set of challenges. If my daughter were to grow up in a world where fear of public spaces is prevalent, I would hate for her to experience that kind of anxiety.
Vaccines have played a crucial role in mitigating the spread of COVID-19, but their effectiveness has also been tested by breakthrough infections caused by variants like Delta. The initial hope that vaccines could bring an end to the pandemic was quickly disabused as it became clear that more needed to be done to increase vaccination rates.
**Trepidation and Public Policy Failures**
The return of children to schools in California, for example, has been met with a lot of trepidation. Many parents are concerned about the safety of their kids, especially those under 12 who cannot yet be vaccinated. This situation underscores the visceral reaction to public policy failures that have left many feeling unprotected.
Some of this distrust is misguided, much like the misplaced trust in institutions like the New York Times or CBS during the pandemic. However, it's hard not to feel let down when policies don't deliver the expected results. The science has changed, and so must our approach to public health.
**A Lighter Moment: Snakes in the Spice Aisle**
In a world dominated by fear and uncertainty, even the smallest things can bring a smile. Earlier this week, Jeff tweeted about encountering a snake in the spice aisle of an Australian supermarket. The situation was both absurd and amusing, especially considering Australia's reputation for dangerous wildlife.
Australia is no stranger to deadly creatures, from foot pythons to venomous spiders. Yet, statistics show that deaths caused by reptiles are actually much lower than one might expect. It seems that despite their fearsome reputation, these creatures aren't as deadly as they appear.
**Conclusion: Navigating an Uncertain Future**
As we move forward in this uncertain world, it's important to remember the lessons of the past. The pandemic has taught us that science is not always certain and that public policy must be adaptable. While we may never fully return to "normal," we can work towards a future where fear doesn't dominate our lives.
Whether it's through better vaccination policies or learning to coexist with nature, we have the power to shape the world around us. And who knows? Maybe one day, conferences like CES will return to their former glory, bringing together innovators and enthusiasts from all over the globe. Until then, we'll keep navigating this new reality, one step at a time.