Last Friday, the World Health Organization identified a new COVID-19 variant of concern - named Omicron. This variant was first detected in South Africa. While there have been no known reports of the new variant in the U.S. or our state, we must remain vigilant.
With the holiday season underway, it is important that we all continue to wear masks, get vaccinated or boosted, and get tested for the virus and stay home if we are feeling sick.
All adults are eligible to receive a COVID-19 booster shot. Studies have found that the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine drops about 6 months after the second dose is administered for the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. The Hartford Courant recently conducted an analysis comparing rates of vaccination to new COVID-19 cases. According to the analysis, Connecticut municipalities with less than 60% of fully vaccinated residents experienced a median rate of 26.4 daily cases per 100,000 residents. Municipalities with over 70% of fully vaccinated residents reported a median rate of 13.8 cases per 100,000.
The vaccine is one of the best tools in our arsenal to limit community spread of COVID-19 and protect against severe infection.
The West Hartford-Bloomfield Health District is offering Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines, boosters, and additional doses for adults 18 and up on Wednesday, December 1 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Conard High School, 110 Beechwood Road.
Pre-registration is not required. Make sure to bring your vaccination card, identification and insurance card. If you lost or forgot your vaccination card, a new one will be provided.
For additional vaccine clinics in our community, please visit the West Hartford-Bloomfield Health District web site here.
For additional vaccine resources and information, please visit the CT COVID-19 vaccine portal here. |