The CDC panel of scientific consultants has compiled a list of priority recipients for COVID-19 vaccines in relation to predicted availability.  It is estimated that 40 million doses will be available in late December sufficient for 20 million recipients.  The first to receive the vaccine will be three million residents of long-term healthcare facilities with the remaining doses assigned to healthcare workers in hospitals.

During the first quarter of 2021, approximately 70 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine will be available each month.  Approximately 35 million recipients in each of January and February will comprise the elderly and those with predisposing conditions including obesity and diabetes.  It is possible that additional vaccines will have been approved by March and April allowing administration to essential workers including first-responders and workers in meat packing plants, food processing, distribution and supermarkets. From April through June, non-essential workers and residents under the age of sixty-five will receive the two-dose vaccine regimen.

The Centers for Disease Control emphasize that precautions to prevent infection should continue through summer including masking, social distancing and avoiding large gatherings.  There will only be a gradual return to a "new normal" life and economy in the third quarter.  In the intermediate term business activity, social interaction and leisure travel will be curtailed. 

Federal and state agencies involved in distribution and administration of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are preparing and testing procedures to transport vaccines requiring a cold chain  extending from manufacture to the sites of administration.  Emergency use approvals of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are expected on December 10th and 17th respectively.  The UK granted approval to the Pfizer vaccine on December 2nd.

The question of acceptability is a primary concern of public health authorities.  Hopefully those most willing to receive the vaccine are represented by the December, January and February risk groups who are anticipated to have a high rate of compliance.  Absence of adverse reactions and evidence of seroconversion should encourage voluntary acceptance of the vaccine given appropriate promotion and support by federal and state agencies, politicians, entertainment and sport personalities and civic organizations.