Mississippi Edition

UMMC begins a stage of clinical trials for a coronavirus vaccine.

Then, the open enrollment period under the Affordable Care Act has begun. But the healthcare program’s constitutionality is being questioned at the highest level by the Trump Administration. 

Plus, lawmakers hold a hearing to consider options for year-round school.

Segment 1:

Pharmaceutical manufacturer Pfizer says an early peek at its data suggests the vaccine it is developing may be 90% effective at preventing COVID-19. The interim analysis, from independent data monitors, looked at 94 infections recorded so far in a study that has enrolled nearly 44,000 people.

However, the announcement doesn't mean a vaccine is imminent, and trials of other vaccines continue - including at the University of Mississippi Medical Center where a trial begins this week. Dr. Richard Summers, Vice Chancellor of Research shares more about vaccine development with our Michael Guidry, starting with the phase three results of the Pfizer trials. 

Segment 2:

Open enrollment for health insurance through the Affordable Care Act began earlier this month. 99,000 Mississippi residents receive their coverage through the ACA. But those Mississippians could be at risk of losing healthcare coverage if the U.S. Supreme Court rules the Affordable Care Act is unconstitutional. Today, justices will hear oral arguments for and against the health insurance program. The Trump Administration is seeking to end the ACA with a decision expected next year. Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney says those in need of coverage can sign up this year, but is concerned about the ramifications if the program is struck down.

Segment 3:

Mississippi legislators are considering modifying the K-12 school year to an alternate schedule. Yesterday, the Senate Education Committee heard from experts about what year-round education would look like in Mississippi. The schedule removes the traditional summer break, and creates several smaller two or three week breaks throughout the year. Corinth School District has used an extended calendar for 5 years. Superintendent Edward Childress told the committee the decision began by assessing the district's goals.