Unjected, a dating app launched in 2021 for individuals who have chosen not to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, has become a focal point of both social interest and controversy. The platform, which advertises itself as a space for “those who share like-minded values and the convictions to remain unvaccinated,” currently has around 65,000 active users, primarily aged 25 to 45. Many of these users identify as politically independent, spiritual, vegetarian, or vegan.
The app was created by Shelby Hosana after she experienced difficulties navigating vaccine requirements on mainstream dating platforms. Hosana, who believes vaccines personally caused her harm, developed Unjected as a way to connect people with similar vaccination views. Despite its dedicated user base, the app has faced significant backlash, including a temporary ban from the Apple App Store in July 2021 due to violations related to false vaccine information. It was later reinstated after implementing a content moderation system.
Unjected has also encountered hostility from the broader public. For example, a planned in-person meetup in Denver had to change venues after the original location canceled following hate messages and threats. Critics from public health circles warn that anti-vaccine sentiment, as promoted by communities like Unjected, poses risks to vulnerable populations and undermines efforts to control disease outbreaks. They argue against classification efforts that would extend disability protections to unvaccinated individuals.
Among the app’s users are individuals like Genna Betros, 27, who discovered Unjected on Instagram four years ago. Raised in a politically independent and vegetarian household in New Jersey, Betros expressed skepticism about the rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines and a general distrust of the medical system, which she feels is influenced by the pharmaceutical industry. She noted that she preferred alternative remedies for common ailments and appreciated finding others on Unjected who questioned mainstream narratives and vaccine messaging.
The app also appeals to users concerned with misinformation about vaccines, including unfounded fears about vaccine shedding. While government data supports the effectiveness of vaccines in preventing disease and outbreaks, communities like Unjected reflect a broader societal division fueled by the pandemic and vaccine mandates. This division has coincided with increases in nonmedical exemptions for childhood vaccines, contributing to outbreaks of preventable diseases in some areas.
Unjected serves as both a social space and a means of forming relationships for those sharing these views. Personal stories from app users illustrate how it has played a role in creating connections among people united by their stance on vaccination. As debates over public health and personal choice continue, platforms like Unjected highlight the ongoing tensions surrounding COVID-19 vaccines and societal responses to the pandemic.