Nature-loving and science-doubting health enthusiasts are at the heart of a vaccine skepticism that is largely contributing to a surge in infections, filling up hospitals and triggering new restrictions
BOLZANO, ITALY - DECEMBER 12: People have their Green Pass checked before entering a restaurant next to the ski slopes on December 12, 2021 in Obereggen, Italy. Ski facilities remained inactive for two years during the Covid-19 pandemic, re-opening in recent weeks with the hope of boosting tourism, yet with high infection rates and low vaccine turn-out the 2021 season remains uncertain. To combat the rise in Covid-19 cases in Italy, the government tightened health restrictions with a "super green pass" as of December 6. (Photo by Francesca Volpi/Getty Images)
SAN CANDIDO, Italy — For the family of organic farmers nestled on the side of a snow-blanketed mountain in Italy’s northern province of Bolzano, the coronavirus was no match for the immunizing effects of the crisp alpine air, the invigoration of a good hike and the healing powers of the forest’s mosses, herbs and vegetables.
“If someone coughs, we do onion compresses, a body cream of thyme and myrtle, and drink a lot of tea,” said Sabine Durnwalder, 37, an unvaccinated resident of the farm in the scenic valleys near the border with highly infected Austria. “I know how to protect myself.”
Bolzano has traditionally had the healthiest, fittest and most active population in Italy. Now, it is also the area with the highest rate of coronavirus infection. A traditional preference for natural remedies has extended to a widespread rejection of vaccines, making it Italy’s least vaccinated region.
Though officials have raised concerns regarding conspiracy theories and disinformation about vaccines spread by right-wing populists, experts here say the nature-loving and science-doubting health enthusiasts are at the heart of a vaccine skepticism that is largely contributing to a surge in infections, filling up hospitals and triggering new restrictions.
©2019 New York Times News Service