May 28, 2021
Dear Members of the Baylor College of Medicine Community,
You continue to have lots of questions about COVID-19. In this week’s video, I address many of these. It won’t surprise you that several concern new guidelines, the latest information on vaccines and what we might expect in the months ahead.
On a personal note, if you are fully vaccinated but still have concerns about being in crowds or putting away your mask, I understand. It is your decision. I will not feel comfortable in large crowds until the vaccination rate is at least 60 percent.
Questions about vaccinations for kids, how to convince others to get vaccinated and facts about whether any deaths are associated with receiving a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine are all covered. The answer to the last one is zero, and I explain how we know that. Other questions concern booster shots, when the vaccines will go off Emergency Use Authorization and travel. There are plenty more questions so I hope you will watch the video to hear the Paul Klotman perspective on these matters.
Last night, Baylor College of Medicine medical school, graduate school and genetic counseling students received their diplomas in a ceremony held at Bayou City Event Center. It was a great celebration and recognition of the accomplishments of these students. I am expecting big things from these graduates. They already have weathered a hurricane, a winter storm and a global pandemic during their training, so they may be even more prepared than others have been.
This is a long weekend. I hope you will rest and relax, but also I hope you will spend some time thinking of what Memorial Day is all about – honoring those who have died while serving in the U.S. military. It is important that we remember all of those who have sacrificed their lives in service to our country.
Lily fans will want to watch this week’s video through to the end.
Stay safe. Have a great weekend.
Paul Klotman, M.D.
President & CEO
Executive Dean
