System of a Down frontman Serj Tankian said he’s “happy” he was vaccinated after testing positive for COVID-19 last week, but he’s “not taking sides on the issue”.
His diagnosis forced the band to reschedule a weekend of shows in Los Angeles with Korn, Helmet and Russian Circles.
Tankian took to social media to thank fans for their outpouring of well wishes upon his news.
“I am overwhelmed and extremely grateful for the outpouring of love and concern from friends and strangers alike,” he wrote.
“I believe that being vaccinated helped minimize my symptoms and suffering.”
He went on to explain that he wasn’t taking a specific stance on vaccines, saying it was not a “one size fits all” decision.
His summarised post read:
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“I am overwhelmed and extremely grateful for the outpouring of love and concern from friends and strangers alike. I am doing well and hoping to be clear of all symptoms soon. I believe that being vaccinated helped minimize my symptoms and suffering. We have many in our community who are resistant to the vaccine. I do understand and am not someone who takes sides on this issue. I think every medical situation requires proper understanding of the patient’s gender, age, medical history and preconditions. Vaccines should be not different and their side effects taken into serious consideration . The health industry cannot operate as a one size fits all on anything anymore. It’s medically irresponsible. That said I’m happy I along with my elder parents are vaccinated. Thank you again for all the love.”
SOAD performed their first new songs in 15 years earlier this month, including ‘Genocidal Humanoidz‘ and ‘Protect the Land’, at a gig in Las Vegas.
While concert promoters, venues and local governments worldwide are implementing vaccine mandates in an attempt to stop the spread of COVID, not everyone is ‘for’ the process.
Metallica’s James Hetfield said he’s “a little sceptical” about getting vaccinated, whilst punk act Madball said they might never play New York City again as long as mandates are in place.
“We truly respect whatever decisions people make with their bodies but we cannot in good conscience play shows that require personal/private medical information(like vaccination status) for entry,” they said on Instagram.
