Downplaying vaccination in the fight against COVID, the Premier appears to have empowered the anti-vaxxers’ case. However, a detailed review of Gladys Berejiklian’s argument demonstrates her authenticity and scientific robustness. During any infection, patients generate antibodies to foreign biomatter, gaining prolonged immunity. This fails if a virulent disease kills them before their immune system reacts. A depleted skeletal muscle mass in the elderly may result in a shortage of proteins to make antibodies. Vaccination mimics this immune trigger with ‘dead’ virus. A patient who survived COVID should have immunity. If not, we shouldn’t expect later vaccination to trigger a response either. Carrying the virus in our mouth or nose may occur independent of vaccination status. Gladys is correct to highlight the difference, as she encourages us to maintain social distancing and handwashing. As a bonus, we are reducing the risk of many other contagious diseases in the process. Alan Sexton, North Parramatta 31Dec2020.