July 20, 2022
Kirksville, MO 7/20/22 – After newly reported COVID-19 cases fell from 77 to 66 during the seven-day period from July 5 to July 11, they rose from 66 to 81 in the most recent period, July 12 through July 18. The jump reflects what is occurring across the country with steady increases in the number of cases.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Omicron BA.5 subvariant is now responsible for 78% of the new cases nationwide. The subvariant appears to get around immune protections in those people who have had prior COVID-19 infections. The CDC also says there is evidence that the BA.5 subvariant and has rendered existing vaccines less effective, although the vaccines continue to provide protection against serious disease and death.
The CDC recommends that children ages 6 months to 4 years be vaccinated, and that everyone ages 5 and older be fully vaccinated and receive one booster dose. Moreover, it recommends that those ages 50 and older and some individuals ages 12 to 49 who are moderately or severely immunocompromised also receive a second booster.
The Adair County Health Department continues to administer Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines and boosters. Vaccines are administered to those ages 12 and older on Tuesdays from 2 to 4 p.m., and to those ages 5 through 11 on Thursdays from 3 to 5:30 p.m. The Health Department is now administering the Pfizer vaccine to children ages 6 months to 4 years old from 9 to 11 a.m. on Thursdays.
To schedule an appointment for the appropriate dose of vaccine or booster, or if you have questions regarding the timing of primary vaccines and booster doses, call the Adair County Health Department at 660-665-8491.
