May 21, 2021
Dear Members of the Baylor College of Medicine Community,
Recent guidance on masking and physical distancing for those who are fully vaccinated has caused some confusion. In this week’s video, I provide some suggestions on what I think is the best approach to take on the various guidelines.
The CDC says you can resume activities that you did prior to the pandemic if you are fully vaccinated. In my view, we still must be aware that there are those who want to be vaccinated but cannot because of health reasons, as well as children under the age of 12. We should keep those people in mind and recognize that these groups are at risk.
I am not going to resume pre-COVID activities until the viral burden is much lower, as in fewer than 50 cases a day and when over 65 percent of the country is vaccinated. I will not be hanging out in crowds.
Also, this week, I show you the comparisons between seasonal flu and COVID-19. In summary, COVID mortality is 10 to 20 times worse than the flu. The vaccines are very safe. I have been repeating the advice to get vaccinated in each video. This week, I add in some different voices on the issue. Let’s just say, sometimes kids do know best.
Have a great weekend. Stay safe.
Paul Klotman, M.D.
President & CEO
Executive Dean
