McConnell says he will receive coronavirus vaccine in ‘next few days’

Majority Leader in the Senate Mitch mcconnellAddison (Mitch) Mitchell McConnellPelosi To Receive COVID-19 Vaccine In ‘Next Days’ As Vaccination Schedule Begins For Lawmakers McConnell Says He Will Get Coronavirus Vaccine In ‘Next Days’ McConnell Raises weekend votes on nominations as coronavirus talks drag MORE (R-Ky.) Said Thursday that he would receive the coronavirus vaccine in the coming days.

“Due to government continuity requirements, I have been advised by the Attending Physician’s Office that I am eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine, which I will accept in the coming days,” McConnell said Thursday.

“Even with a vaccine, I will continue to follow [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] The CDC guidelines in wearing a mask, practicing social distancing and washing my hands frequently, ”McConnell added. “I strongly encourage everyone to continue to follow these important guidelines. This is the only way to beat COVID-19 once and for all. “

McConnell reiterated his concerns about skepticism about the vaccine or his reluctance to take it, citing his own history as a polio survivor.

“As a polio survivor, I know both the fear of an illness and the extraordinary promise of hope that vaccines bring,” he said. “I really hope that all Kentuckians and Americans will heed this advice and accept this safe and effective vaccine.”

Former Presidents Obama, George W. Bush and Clinton have all vowed to take the vaccine publicly to build confidence in its safety. Vice President Pence also said he would be vaccinated publicly, and president elect Joe bidenJoe Biden Los Angeles Mayor announces he won’t be joining Biden administration Jill Biden: PhD is one of the things I’m ‘most proud of’ READ: Official statement from Deb Haaland on historic nomination to Secretary of the Interior PLUS should receive it publicly as early as next week.

“I don’t want to get ahead, but I want to make sure that we demonstrate to the American people that it is safe to take,” Biden said this week. “When I do, I will do it publicly, so that you all can witness my accomplishment.”

McConnell had previously expressed concern over the skepticism surrounding the vaccine earlier in the week.

“When about half the population is skeptical or says they won’t, that’s not good news, so I think all of us who have at least a few followers in the country need to step up things like the past presidents and how I’m sure people in the entertainment world are going to be encouraging people to do that as well, ”he said.