COVID cases continue to be detected in Dent County. Strong herd immunity from vaccinations and infections has contributed to a decrease in transmission and severe disease. Dent County has continued to be impacted by other respiratory illnesses, particularly influenza, this winter.
COVID-19 booster shots now contain a version of the spike protein from the Omicron strain of COVID-19, which is responsible for the large increase in cases seen over the ’21/’22 winter season. Current circulating strains have important differences from Omicron, but recent studies have shown that this booster shot still confers strong immunity against severe illness and death.
Due to the quickly evolving nature of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, it is impossible for our currently available vaccines to prevent you from getting COVID-19, but they can lessen the symptoms and reduce your risk of severe illness and death. We recommend everyone who is eligible (6 months and older can all have 1 updated booster at this time).
We also advise anyone who is immunocompromised or around those who may be at high risk of serious illness or death from COVID-19 to consider wearing a mask indoors. Everyone should stay home when you are sick. If you have respiratory symptoms, such as runny or stuff nose, sneezing, coughing, you should wear a mask until your symptoms are resolved. Masks are very effective at slowing the transmission of COVID-19, especially when worn by the person who is sick or infectious.
Schedule your booster shot or COVID test today by going to our scheduling page.
