Stephen Colbert points out why deliberately catching COVID-19 is a terrible idea

You will regret it.
 By 
Amanda Yeo
 on 
Stephen Colbert on The Late Show
Watch Next

The Late Show host Stephen Colbert has shared a little pandemic advice, urging people not to go out and deliberately catch COVID-19. Because apparently some people think that's a good idea.

"It seems ridiculous to purposefully catch COVID, but according to one doctor, the idea of intentionally trying to catch Omicron is 'all the rage,'" said Colbert. "Yes, getting Omicron is super popular — I hear it's dating Pete Davidson. He's got that BDE: that big Delta energy."

It should go without saying that actively trying to catch COVID-19 is a phenomenally terrible idea, one on par with bleach injections. As CNN reports, potential negative consequences include getting long COVID, stressing the healthcare system, and spreading the deadly virus to children.

We're all well and truly sick of this pandemic. Still, that doesn't mean getting actually sick is a smart move.

Amanda Yeo
Amanda Yeo
Assistant Editor

Amanda Yeo is an Assistant Editor at Mashable, covering entertainment, culture, tech, science, and social good. Based in Australia, she writes about everything from video games and K-pop to movies and gadgets.


Latest Videos

Stephen Colbert reacts to the Artemis II moon mission
A man in a suit stands on a talk show stage, gesturing.


'The Daily Show' reacts to judge halting Trump's White House ballroom
Desi Lydic presents "The Daily Show" beside an image of Donald Trump.


A24's 'Mother Mary' trailer is worth it for the FKA twigs track
Anne Hathway is dressed in a red pop star outfit with religious overtones in a film still from "Mother Mary."

Jon Stewart has a brutal reaction to Trump waffling about pens
A man in a suit sitting behind a talk show desk looks angry. In the top left is an image of the president holding up a pen.

Stephen Colbert gleefully recaps the best signs at the 'No Kings' protest
A man in a suit stands on a talk show stage, smiling. The caption at the bottom reads, "I like that one."

Riz Ahmed is troublingly intense in new 'SNL UK' promo
A close-up of a man grinning in a slightly creepy way.


The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
These newsletters may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. By clicking Subscribe, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!