The NBA warned teams Thursday that franchises are prohibited from seeking and administering newly released coronavirus vaccines ahead of public health prioritization guidelines, according to a memo obtained by ESPN.
To inform teams that medical experts advising the NBA agree with the FDA that the new Pfizer and Moderna coronavirus vaccines are “safe and effective,” the NBA told teams that the League will work to vaccinate. to its players and staff “in accordance with the timing and priorities set by applicable public health guidelines,” the memo read.
The NBA allows exemptions for team physicians and health-related staff and older staff or those with conditions that pose a higher risk of complications from contracting the coronavirus, the memo said.
The NBA plans to partner with the National Association of Basketball Players in the coming weeks and months to public campaigns to educate about vaccine safety, the memo says.