The Fulton County Board of Health (FCBOH) is encouraging all residents to take the proper precautions to ensure their health and wellbeing in the New Year. FCBOH epidemiologists have noticed an increase in both COVID-19 and influenza cases across the county and greater metro area. The best way to protect yourself and loved ones is to get vaccinated for both COVID-19 and influenza.
“The winter surge is concerning, but thankfully we have the vaccines and boosters to combat it,” says Dr. Lynn Paxton, District Health Director, Fulton County Board of Health. “Residents need to take the virus seriously and protect themselves and their loved ones as we enter the new year.”
Fulton County Board of Health is still offering first and second doses of the COVID-19 vaccine at several locations across the county. And we offer the bivalent booster for those that have already received their primary doses or earlier boosters. The bivalent booster is designed to offer protection against both the original strain of SARS-CoV-2 as well as the Omicron BA.4/BA.5 strain, now the predominant variant of the virus. Currently less than 15% of residents over the age of 5 have received the most recent booster, leaving many susceptible to the virus.
More information about the COVID-19 vaccine can be found on our website.
Unfortunately, COVID-19 isn’t the only threat residents are facing. Flu transmission is “high” across Georgia, according to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC). This year the virus started spreading earlier than usual, with many infections being reported in late October. Flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older, especially the elderly and immunocompromised. Flu vaccines are available at little to no cost for most people. You can learn more about vaccines and schedule an appointment here.
If you or a loved one are experiencing any COVID-19 or flu symptoms please stay home, get tested, and wear a mask around others.
Original source can be found here.
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