A conservative talk radio host in Tennessee who expressed skepticism about COVID-19 vaccines is now telling followers to get their shots after he contracted the virus and landed in the hospital.
Phil Valentine, a host on Nashville SuperTalk 99.7 WTN, contracted the virus two weeks ago and is now "fighting for his life," according to family members.
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His brother, Mark Valentine, wrote in a Facebook post that the broadcaster is in "very serious condition,” suffering from pneumonia brought on by COVID-19.
“He is in the hospital in the critical care unit breathing with assistance but is NOT on a ventilator," the statement said.
WTN issued an update on Valentine's status on Sunday, saying he remained in critical condition after undergoing oxygen treatments.
The 62-year-old Valentine has been outspoken about the vaccine. In one Facebook post, he wrote that "Common sense told us that if you weren't at risk for COVID you shouldn't get the vaccine." In a followup comment, he said giving the vaccine to children was “equivalent to child abuse."
His family, however, said that Valentine has never been an anti-vaxxer -- though "he regrets not being more vehemently ‘Pro-Vaccine’ and looks forward to being able to more vigorously advocate that position as soon as he is back on the air."
The family finished their statement by asking for prayers for Valentine and ending with a plea: "PLEASE GO GET VACCINATED!"
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