COVID-19/Omicron Variant – What You Need to Know

OMICRON VARIANT: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Vaccines remain the best public health measure to protect people from COVID-19, slow transmission and reduce the likelihood of any new variants emerging; scientists are currently investigating Omicron, including how protected fully vaccinated people will be against infection, hospitalization, and death.  Masks offer protection against all variants.  CDC continues to recommend wearing a mask in public indoor settings in areas of substantial or high community transmission – regardless of vaccination status.

COVID-19 BOOSTER SHOTS

The recent emergence of the Omicron variant further emphasizes the importance of vaccination, boosters, and prevention efforts needed to protect against COVID-19.

If you need help scheduling your booster shot, contact the location that set up your previous appointment. If you need to get your booster shot in a location different from where you received your previous shot, there are several ways you can find a vaccine provider.  Bring your CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Record card to your booster shot appointment so your provider can fill in the information about your booster dose.  If you did not receive a card at your first appointment, contact the vaccination site where you got your first shot or your state health department to find out how you can get a card.

You may experience side effects after getting a COVID-19 vaccine.  These are normal signs that your body is building protection against COVID-19.

 

SELF-TESTING FOR COVID-19

Self-testing is one of several risk-reduction strategies to reduce chances of COVID-19 transmission. They may be used regardless of vaccination or symptom status.

Consider using a self-test before joining indoor gatherings with others who are not in your household.  Self-tests can be used at home or anywhere, are easy to use, and produce rapid results. If your self-test has a positive result, stay home or isolate for 10 days, wear a mask if you have contact with others, and call your healthcare provider.

 

COVID DATA TRACKER WEEKLY REVIEW

COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths have all increased in recent weeks, with many parts of the country experiencing substantial or high levels of community transmission.  As people travel and gather this holiday season, take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.  

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the U.S.

December 20, 2021

US states, territories, and District of Columbia have reported 50,791,012 cases of COVID-19 in the United States.

CDC provides updated U.S. case information online daily.

In addition to cases, deaths, and laboratory testing, CDC’s COVID Data Tracker now has a Vaccinations tab to track distribution of COVID-19 vaccines in your state.

(AL.COM/www.al.com)

 

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