The state of Michigan has begun distributing COVID-19 vaccines, and frontline health workers and residents of long-term care facilities are first up to receive the vaccination. That’s based on federal and state guidance, which has designated a number of phases for vaccine distribution to particular populations of individuals. Though it’s still early in the rollout process, Michigan is reporting a relatively low rate of administered COVID-19 vaccinations so far, compared with other states. As of early January, Michigan was lagging 40% behind the national average in vaccination rates. GUESTS: Dr. Arnold Monto, epidemiologist at the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health and acting chair of the Food and Drug Administration’s Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee Robin Erb, a health reporter for Bridge Michigan  Stateside’s theme music is by 14KT. Additional music by Blue Dot Sessions. If you like what you hear on the pod, consider supporting our work. Looking for more conversations from Stateside? Right this way. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.