"I’m a believer," he says. "The science is very sound, and even though the [Food and Drug Administration] has not formally approved the vaccine, I surely would encourage people to receive it.
"The level of detail and structure that goes into a clinical trial to ensure its safety and efficacy is incredible. And while there is some risk involved, you're doing it to help humanity. I wanted to help prove that the Moderna vaccine works." The FDA has approved this vaccine under emergency authorization.
He adds that when particpants are enrolled in trials, they get extra attention dedicated to their health.
"I'm a teeth grinder, and I actually fractured a tooth after my second injection," he says. "This led to a lot of paper work by clinical trial staff because they're watching carefully for any possible side effects of the vaccine. You receive an incredibly high level of medical attention when you are in a clinical trial. This is a signficant benefit to being in one."
He spoke to Local 12 about why he decided to step up to the plate for science and about vaccine hesitancy from frontline health care workers.
Watch the full Local 12 report.
Read more about Kissela's participation in the clinical trial.
Local 12 also spoke to Kissela about "long-haulers," patients with COVID-19 that have lasting complications.
Watch the full Local 12 report.
Featured photo of Kissela receiving the first dose in the clinical trial by Colleen Kelley.