State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs is optimistic by late December one of three vaccines touted by pharmaceutical companies as effective will be approved by the Federal Drug Administration. He says one vaccine, by Pfizer, is being reviewed by the FDA under an emergency request. Dobbs appeared before the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee to answer their questions; this one from Republican Senator Kevin Blackwell of Southaven.
“Of these vaccines, which one would you recommend?” said Blackwell.
"You know I haven’t seen enough about the AstraZeneca one. But I feel really good about both the Pfizer and the Moderna, and assuming the information still looks good and I’m confident in the process. And some of my colleagues and friends are actually on some of the advisory committees, that I know they’re objective,” said Dobbs.
Dobbs says Mississippi will initially receive about 90,000 doses of an approved vaccine for COVID 19. He says Phase I will go to those on the front lines such as healthcare workers, first responders and pharmacists. Dobbs says they will provide hospitals and clinics with the vaccines to inoculate staff. He added they’ll use drive thru test sites as well. Dobbs says long term care facilities are next, then Phase II begins.
“Phase I-B will be given to long term care folks both residents and staff. And then once we get to Phase II, we’ll be targeting a broader population but also hitting some high risk assorted individuals. And Phase II will probably further into the winter into the spring when we get the volume,” said Dobbs.
Dobbs tells lawmakers all nursing homes have signed-up with CVS and Walgreens pharmacies to provide the vaccine. He says the health department will ensure assisted living facilities receive it as well. Dobbs explained some of the vaccines require two doses, so they have steps in place to remind people to get the second one.
