With the first shipments of COVID-19 vaccine arriving in Georgia this week, Emory hosted the first of many virtual town halls on the topic Dec. 17.
At this early stage, uncertainties remain about vaccine availability in both the short and long term, but the virtual town hall sought to inform Emory faculty, staff and students about what is known about the safety and efficacy of these vaccines and to begin to answer questions.
Based on CDC guidelines, the initial phase of vaccine rollout will prioritize high-risk health care workers and residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities. It is important that people get the vaccine, as at least 60% of the population needs to be vaccinated in order to control the spread of COVID-19.