Are we reopening too fast? A doctor explains why coronavirus cases are still as high as they are in the US

News 12's Elizabeth Hashagen was joined by System Executive and Executive Vice President of Physician Enterprise at Commonspirit Health Dr. Thomas McGinn to discuss the hope of coronavirus vaccine distribution, the danger of variants, vaccines for children, and answer your virus questions.

News 12 Staff

Apr 5, 2021, 2:31 PM

Updated 1,286 days ago

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News 12's Elizabeth Hashagen was joined by System Executive and Executive Vice President of Physician Enterprise at Commonspirit Health Dr. Thomas McGinn to discuss the hope of coronavirus vaccine distribution, the danger of variants, vaccines for children, and answer your virus questions.
Restrictions are being lifted in the tri-state area as vaccine eligibility is continuing to expand. In New Jersey, anyone 55 or older, and anyone 16 and over with developmental disabilities can get vaccinated. On Tuesday, all New York residents over the age of 16 can get their vaccine. A total of 3.1 million Americans are getting a dose of the coronavirus vaccine on average each day, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say around 165 million people across the nation have received at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine with 61 million people being fully vaccinated. Dr. McGinn answers if vaccinations will allow us to hit herd immunity:
At the same time, however, the more contagious B.1.1.7 variant is fueling a rise in cases for younger people. The variant that is said to have originated in the United Kingdom is creating concerns for younger groups that haven't been vaccinated. Dr. McGinn answers if the problem is less serious since more vulnerable populations are already vaccinated:
Pfizer also announce that its vaccine is safe and 100% effective at preventing the virus in people ages 12 to 15. Dr. McGinn answers when he believes that age group will be able to get vaccinated:
Dr. McGinn answers why some people may be affected worse than others: