by Buzz Hollander, MD
Real Clear Science
Against the bleak backdrop of a dismal 2020 and a worsening pandemic, November finally gifted the world some good news: the Pfizer and Moderna Covid-19 vaccines were shockingly effective. We celebrated, a bit. Then the bickering began. How are we to distribute these vaccines? Here in the U.S., we have our experts on the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) to give the states guidance on how to distribute these precious vaccines, and they have spoken. Their recommendation to vaccinate health care workers and nursing home residents and staff first is not unreasonable. However, I would argue it is unwise, and will lead to many thousands of unnecessary deaths; and that every state should be engaged in a vigorous conversation as to whether these guidelines should be followed. Allow me to explain.