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The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has shifted from temporary authorization to full approval of the COVID-19 vaccine produced by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer. Full approval means the FDA has enough scientific evidence to conclude with confidence that the vaccine is safe and effective and that the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. Some public health experts believe the decision will encourage more Americans to get vaccinated and could mark a key turning point in the fight against COVID. Listen to learn what the ruling means for kids younger than 16 and how it might affect vaccine mandates.
Story Length: 3:52
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August 9, 2021
4:56
The CDC recently recommended that even people who have been vaccinated against COVID-19 wear masks in crowded indoor settings. The guidance was issued to help reduce the spread of a highly contagious version of the coronavirus, the delta variant, that is spreading quickly throughout the country. Unvaccinated people are at much greater risk of serious illness, although vaccinated people can become infected and transmit the virus to others. Listen to hear the director of the National Institutes of Health discuss his thoughts on school reopenings and explain why getting vaccinated is still the best way to stay safe and protect others.
Read MoreJuly 19, 2021
3:53
COVID-19 vaccination rates in the U.S. are slowing, and many people who remain unvaccinated feel hesitant about getting the shot. Primary care doctors are playing an increasingly critical part in the next wave of efforts to reduce the spread of the virus. Doctors often have the trust and respect of their patients and can answer their questions, address their concerns, and help guide their decision-making around getting vaccinated. Listen to hear patients and medical professionals discuss the important role primary care doctors can play in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.
Update: Since this story first aired, the vaccination rate in Texas has risen to just over half, and the Fair Park vaccination site has closed.
Read MoreMay 24, 2021
3:32
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a COVID-19 vaccine for 12-15-year-olds. Kids who tested the vaccine, developed by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer, were extremely well protected against the virus and had only mild side effects. Approval of the new vaccine means that 87% of Americans are eligible to be vaccinated, raising hopes that life can return to normal and the pandemic can be defeated. Listen to learn more about the new vaccine and how teens and preteens – and their parents – are responding.
Update: Since this story aired, the Pfizer vaccine has become available for kids aged 12-15.
Read MoreMay 3, 2021
4:32
The term “herd immunity” means that an entire population is protected against a disease. Herd immunity is achieved when most people in a group are immune to an illness, limiting the ability of germs to spread. The U.S. is vaccinating people against COVID-19 as quickly as possible in an effort to reach 85% of the population, the number medical experts say is needed for herd immunity. Many people are reluctant to get vaccinated, however, raising concerns among public health officials about the country’s ability to achieve its goal and beat the virus. Listen to learn about the push to achieve herd immunity and how public health officials are addressing vaccine hesitancy.
Update: Since this story aired, everyone in the U.S. aged 12 and over has become eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine.
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