Andrew Zimmern Just Got The COVID-19 Vaccine
Andrew Zimmern is one of the notable figures from the food entertainment world who have received the COVID-19 vaccine, and it seems he hopes others will do the same. On March 15, the entrepreneur-chef-TV host joined the ranks of Martha Stewart, Mary Berry (BBC's The Great British Baking Show), and Stanley Tucci (CNN's Searching for Italy) (via People), all of whom have gotten the shot that protects against the deadly SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Zimmern, who is a four-time James Beard Award winner, producer, and the former host of Bizarre Foods, posted a photo on Twitter that might inspire others to get the jab. In a scene that is becoming more and more common on social media, the famous chef and media personality is seen with his sleeve rolled up as a healthcare worker administers the shot. Though we can't see it, we assume Zimmern is wearing a smile behind his red gingham mask.
An inspiring and hopeful message
Zimmern captioned his COVID-19 vaccine photo with an inspiring and empowering message for his followers: "This is a game changer for the world. And today a big step for me in my pursuit of wellness, taking care of myself and my community."
Among his biggest fans, Zimmern is well-known for his own, often difficult wellness journey and his pursuit of social justice causes. The star has spoken openly about overcoming an addiction to alcohol and drugs in hopes of helping others struggling with the disease. In January 2020, he celebrated 28 years of sobriety with an inspiring Instagram post: "I wasted years not asking for help from people who cared about me. Once I did, that simple act changed my life," he wrote.
In 2020, Zimmern became the restaurant industry's most outspoken advocate of the U.S. Restaurants Act, which served as the model for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, part of President Joe Biden's $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan. The American Rescue Plan includes $28.6 billion in grants earmarked for struggling restaurateurs, starting with female- and minority-owned businesses impacted by the pandemic (via 11 Alive). As more Americans get vaccinated, we can only hope for better health for people and businesses alike.
If you, or anyone you know, is struggling with addiction issues, help is available. Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website or contact SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).