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Avera McKennan's chief medical officer explains how to end this pandemic

anilyanik
/
NPR

This interview is from SDPB's daily public-affairs show, In the Moment, hosted by Lori Walsh.

Pfizer has announced positive news from COVID vaccine trials for children younger than 12. As South Dakota parents consider whether to vaccinate their younger children when the vaccine is available, Michael Elliot, MD, is chief medical officer for Avera McKennan. He says new vaccinations can not only keep kids in school and learning, but also serves a vital role in preventing new variants of the virus.

Elliot also explains how a virus mutates, what a "booster" shot is (and isn't), and who should talk with their doctor or pharmacist about getting a third dose of the Pfizer vaccine (cancer patients, people 65 and older, immunocompromised people).

Lori Walsh is the host and senior producer of In the Moment.
Chris is a producer for In the Moment.