Title: Controversial “Quack” Doctor Opposes Covid-19 Booster Shot: A Recipe of Misinformation and Conspiracy Theories
Subtitle: Dr. Joseph Ladapo, Hired by Ron DeSantis, Makes Waves with Unfounded Claims
By Diane Roberts
In a world where trust in science and medical experts is crucial, there are few figures as polarizing as Dr. Joseph Ladapo. Appointed as the surgeon general of Florida by Governor Ron DeSantis, Ladapo has become notorious for his opposition to public health measures and vocal skepticism about Covid-19 vaccines. His controversial views have earned him the nicknames “Quack Ladapo” and “Doctor of Doom.”
Ladapo, clad in an “America’s Frontline Doctors” lab coat, gained attention last year when he spoke at an event that featured Stella Immanuel, a doctor known for her outlandish claims about medical conditions being caused by demonic forces. The event further solidified Ladapo’s association with fringe medical theories and conspiracy theories.
His current stance is a vehement opposition to the new Covid-19 booster shot. Ladapo argues that the booster shot is unsafe, claiming that it hasn’t undergone proper testing or that secret clinical trials have revealed dangerous side effects. However, he fails to provide any evidence to support these claims or share the supposed lab reports.
Unsurprisingly, Ladapo’s views have drawn sharp criticism from mainstream medical professionals who emphasize the importance of trusting scientific research and established protocols. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and renowned immunologist Dr. Anthony Fauci have all endorsed the booster shot as a safe and effective way to combat the Delta variant.
Despite Ladapo’s opposition, the Florida Department of Health has actually recommended against the booster for younger individuals. Paradoxically, shots are still available for them, highlighting the confusion that arises from Ladapo’s contradictory statements.
Ladapo’s controversial appointment as the surgeon general of Florida came after a tenure at UCLA School of Medicine, where he left behind a string of disgruntled colleagues. His former supervisor even went so far as to provide a negative reference, stating clearly that Ladapo was not fit for the role.
The Quack Ladapo, as he has come to be known, fits well with the fringe group America’s Frontline Doctors, known for promoting questionable medical advice. One member infamously claimed that gynecological problems were caused by “demon sperm,” an idea that Ladapo has not publicly condemned.
Ladapo’s credibility took another hit when he praised Simone Gold, a fellow “Frontline Doctor” who was later sentenced to jail for her involvement in the Capitol insurrection on January 6, 2021.
Not only is Ladapo a purveyor of misinformation and conspiracy theories, but he has also been accused of altering data to fit his narratives. In one instance, he reportedly reversed the findings of a study to falsely claim that the Covid vaccine increased the risk of cardiac disease.
It is evident that Ladapo holds an unorthodox view of mainstream medicine, questioning the need for rigorous scientific training and dismissing the value of peer-reviewed research. Embracing alternative treatments like horse de-wormer and ultraviolet light, he seems more inclined to promote unproven remedies than adhere to evidence-based medicine.
Ladapo’s association with Governor Ron DeSantis, who has been criticized for prioritizing political expediency over public health, raises concerns about the motivations behind his controversial views. His unwavering support for DeSantis, even in the face of public outcry, undermines his objectivity and further erodes trust in his medical expertise.
As a wave of Covid-19 vaccine hesitancy continues to hinder the pandemic response, figures like Ladapo who spread misinformation pose a significant threat to public health. Experts and literate individuals have consistently refuted Ladapo’s claims, emphasizing the importance of following established medical practices.
In the end, it is crucial to remember that medical decisions should be based on rigorous research, scientific consensus, and expert advice, not on the questionable and unfounded claims of political pundits or fringe doctors who have already raised eyebrows within the medical community.