In the wake of changing federal guidance on new COVID vaccines announced by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., UVM infectious disease specialist Tim Lahey, M.D., M.M.Sc., professor of medicine, commented for an NBC5 story on Vermonters’ concerns. In addition to new rules limiting eligibility to people considered high risk, it is unclear if the vaccines will be continue to be covered by insurance.
Despite any confusion, health professionals continue to recommend vaccination.
While uncertainty remains, patients should not be afraid to ask their doctor if they can get the vaccine. “I hope it doesn’t repel people,” Lahey said. “Medicine is medicine and that shouldn’t be overly politicized.”