The drummer in band The Offspring has claimed he has been dropped from its line-up for refusing to get the COVID-19 vaccine on health grounds.
Pete Parada says he was following the advice of his doctor by not getting the COVID-19 vaccine, due to his personal medical history.
Parada, who has been a member of The Offspring since 2007 wrote in a lengthy post on social media: “I’ve got some unfortunate and difficult news to share. I know many of my close friends and family would’ve preferred to hear this privately first – and I apologize for the public nature of my disclosure, but I don’t know how to have this conversation multiple times.
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“Given my personal medical history and the side-effect profile of these jabs, my doctor has advised me not to get a shot at this time.
“I caught the virus over a year ago, it was mild for me – so I am confident I’d be able to handle it again, but I’m not so certain I’d survive another post-vaccination round of Guillain-Barre Syndrome, which dates back to my childhood and has evolved to be progressively worse over my lifetime. Unfortunately for me, (and my family – who is hoping to keep me around a bit longer) the risks far outweigh the benefits.”
Guillain-Barre Syndrome is a rare condition that affects the nerves, with symptoms including numbness and pain. It can be life-threatening but most people make a full recovery.
“Since I am unable to comply with what is increasingly becoming an industry mandate – it has recently been decided that I am unsafe to be around, in the studio, and on tour. I mention this because you won’t be seeing me at these upcoming shows.”
Parada says there is no bad blood between him and the rest of the group after being asked to leave, saying “they’re doing what they believe is best for them, while I am doing the same”.
He also adds that he supports the use of the vaccine, but that it must be taken with informed consent, and that he does not find it ethical for governments and businesses to mandate people to get the vaccine.
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Parada also says that those who are hesitant to get the vaccine should be listened to, and they are not a “monolithic group”.
Sky News has contacted The Offspring’s management for comment.
The Offspring formed in 1984 as Manic Subsidal, and are known for hits such as Pretty Fly (For A White Guy), Self Esteem and You’re Gonna Go Far, Kid.
They are due to tour the UK later this year.