COVID-19 weekly news: May 18 – 24 2021

The safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines for children

coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine is now available to children ages 12 through 15 in the U.S. Here's what parents, caregivers and children need to know about the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine, the possible side effects, and the benefits of getting vaccinated.

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Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine graduates ease physician shortage in world affected by COVID-19 pandemic

In reference to the inaugural class of graduating physicians, Michele Halyard, M.D., vice dean of Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine said: "Today is the culmination of your hopes, dreams and hard work that reflects not just the last four years, but many years of preparation before. It also reflects the dedication and support provided to you by friends and loved ones who have been the wind beneath your wings. This is a day you should be proud of as you have accomplished so much."

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Mayo Clinic updates masking, in-person meeting guidance

No changes to masking, distancing, or in-person meetings guidance are being made inside buildings where health care is delivered or clinical activity occurs, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status. This means that all masking and distancing requirements remain in place for patients, visitors and staff inside these facilities.

Changes will be made for fully vaccinated patients, visitors and staff members while outdoors on Mayo Clinic property. Masking is optional for patients, visitors and Mayo Clinic staff who are fully vaccinated, including the ability to meet outdoors and eat with other fully vaccinated people. 

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Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast: Guidelines and nuances of wearing a face mask

In this Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Poland discusses masking guidelines in further detail. Also, he offers an update on COVID-19 vaccine research for children, and he shares positive news about the decreasing numbers of COVID-19 cases and deaths.

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Samantha Rossi

Samantha Rossi is a Digital Marketing Manager at Mayo Clinic Laboratories. She supports marketing strategies for product management and specialty testing. Samantha has worked at Mayo Clinic since 2019.