
Intensifying anti-science sentiments that have led people to ignore public health guidelines during the Covid-19 pandemic are “disturbing” and “disappointing,” Dr. Anthony Fauci said on CBS Radio Friday.
CBS’s Steven Portnoy had asked the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and a prominent member of the White House Coronavirus Task Force specifically about his level of concern for the people who will be attending President Trump’s rally in Tulsa on Saturday.
“Rather than specifically pointing out any individual gathering, I think it applies to all gatherings,” Fauci said. “The best way to protect yourself and to prevent acquisition of and spread of infection is to avoid crowds.”
Fauci thinks some members of the public harbor an anti-science mentality that has intensified in the current situation and stems from a mistrust of authority. He sees the anti-vaccination movement in this vein. “It’s all part of that trend, which is very disturbing,” Fauci said.
Fauci said he gets concerned about the increased risk of spreading infection when he sees crowds or sees people not wearing masks.
“If in fact, for one reason or other, you feel compelled to do that, which we don’t recommend, then wear a mask at all times,” Fauci said.
Pressed again on the risk of the virus widely spreading at a mass gathering, Fauci said he couldn’t put a number on it. “But it’s very clear that the risk exists,” Fauci said.