The NBA warned teams on Thursday that franchises are prohibited from seeking and administering newly released coronavirus vaccines ahead of public health guidelines for setting priorities, according to a note obtained by ESPN.
Informing teams that medical experts advising the NBA agree with the FDA that the new Pfizer and Moderna coronavirus vaccines are “safe and effective,” the NBA told teams that the League will work to vaccinate its players and staff “according to schedule and setting the priorities set by the applicable public health guidelines ”, the memo read.
The NBA allows exceptions for team doctors and health-related staff and older staff members or for those with a higher risk of complications from contracting coronavirus, according to the note.
The NBA intends to work with National Association of Basketball Players in the coming weeks and months, in public education campaigns on vaccine safety, the note says.