OSF Physicians Answer Questions, Combat Misinformation

New cases of the coronavirus continue to surge across the U.S., spurred by the fast-spreading and extremely contagious Delta variant that now makes up the majority of COVID infections in the country.

As the pandemic rages on, so does misinformation about the virus, the vaccines and mitigation measures. We sat down with  Jared Meeker, DO, an OSF HealthCare pulmonary critical care physician, and Douglas Kasper, MD, an OSF HealthCare infectious disease physician, to address some often misunderstood or misrepresented topics.

The CDC has been changing guidelines often. Why should we trust what they say?

How can cloth masks stop a microscopic virus?

Why is it important for those unable/ineligible for the vaccine to mask? What about the people masking around them?

There are more and more reports of breakthrough infections in vaccinated people. Why?

Is the vaccinated population protected from delta and other variants?

Does vaccination work to combat a respiratory illness, even one with animal reservoirs?

How does the vaccine stack up against natural immunity?

How can the vaccine provide protection if this virus keeps mutating?

Can vaccinated people spread the virus?

What is your advice for someone who is hesitant to get the vaccine?

For more information on the COVID-19 vaccine, including general vaccine information, answers to frequently asked questions, and even online vaccination appointments for anyone 12 and older, visit osfhealthcare.org/vaccine.