Texas Medical Center provides updates on the launch of COVID-19 vaccination

HOUSTON – Texas Medical Center hosted a briefing on Tuesday that provided an update on the vaccine launch at Texas Medical Center.

The briefing began at 11 a.m. with President and CEO Bill McKeon and physicians Dr. David Callender, MD, president and CEO of Memorial Hermann Health System, Dr. Peter WT Pisters, MD, President MD Anderson Cancer Center and Dr. David Persse, medical director of the Houston Department of Health. The information provided a citywide perspective on the launch of the vaccine.

Health experts say they are concerned about the increase in the number of cases in the area. Health experts say they have seen the impact of Thanksgiving and believe that the number of cases may continue to rise as families gather for the holidays. Families are encouraged to practice social distance and take a COVID-19 test if they plan to spend it with a “safe balloon” of people.

The following vaccinations will be intended for those aged 65 and over and for those aged 16 and over with a serious illness or who are pregnant. The first vaccines were given to front-line workers. TMC said it would deliver 8,000 doses of the vaccine by the end of Tuesday.

Health experts discussed the importance of reaching people from all walks of life as a way to build trust when they advised them to get the vaccine, crediting the media for helping to get the word out.

Cancer patients will be able to get the vaccine, however, certain ingredients may have different side effects. Health experts have advised patients to talk to their doctor before getting the vaccine.

While TMC did not decide to limit elective procedures during this time, the thought was discussed.