COLOMBIA, SC (WIS) – The director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was in Columbia on Thursday to meet with health officials and the governor.
Dr. Robert Redfield joined Governor Henry McMaster, Department of Health and Environmental Control officials and staff from agencies dealing with substance abuse and mental health for a roundtable discussion on the University of South Carolina campus.
The leaders were set to discuss “the short and long term impacts of COVID-19 on our communities, including the use of opioids, chronic diseases and mental health”.
Dr. Redfield said that while there is still no COVID-19 vaccine available, we have many tools at our disposal to fight the virus.
He believes that if more people used facial coverings and practiced social detachment in the coming months, we would have the virus under control.
“The outbreak is increasing now. We have to remain vigilant, ”he said.
WIS spoke to Dr. Redfield after the round table. He praised South Carolina’s response to the pandemic.
“I meant what I said publicly. I think the governor provided great leadership. He understands the importance of balance, ”he said.
Dr. Redfield hopes that a COVID-19 vaccine will be approved for distribution in late November or early December. He said the vaccine can be prioritized for those who need it first, such as the most vulnerable and frontline workers or first responders.
He said the vaccine could be distributed to the public by the end of the second quarter of 2021.
As we move through the winter months, Dr. Redfield emphasizes staying vigilant, especially those who go home on Thanksgiving.
“Home meetings with your family have always been seen as a safe space,” he said. “I want people to recognize that they still have a social distance from responsibility; wear face coverings and wash your hands this holiday season. “
At the end of the discussion, Redfield participated in a question and answer session with reporters. Watch the video below.
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