Week of February 15, 2021

This episode discusses six MMWR COVID-19 reports. The first two describe the detection and spread of COVID-19 variants in the United States and internationally. The third looks at data from the first month of COVID-19 vaccine safety monitoring. The fourth describes declines in routine vaccination rates among Medicare beneficiaries during the pandemic. The fifth report emphasizes how telehealth helps ensure access to care while limiting exposure to COVID-19. The last report discusses how employers can protect workers against COVID-19 by requiring and providing protective equipment such as face masks and physical barriers.