A boost before the holidays

The holiday season brings with it gifts both wanted and unwanted.

Cold and flu season is entering its busy months, and along with it comes greater risk of COVID-19 infection. Clay County Public Health Coordinator Colette Rossiter is urging area residents to consider vaccination boosters before holiday parties and family gatherings heat up.

Below, Rossiter shares information and insight about current vaccination suggestions.

What are CDC guidelines for COVID booster shots? If someone has had their third shot, should they get another?

The CDC is recommending anyone age five years old and older receive one bivalent booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine, if they have completed a primary series of COVID-19 vaccinations.

The booster is most important for those over the age of 65 and anyone with immune compromising conditions or chronic illness. The bivalent booster vaccine is based on the original strain of SARS-CoV-2 plus two Omicron sub-variants. Although not perfect at preventing all infections, a booster offers greater protection from severe illness.

How have COVID infection numbers been locally in recent months?

Reported numbers of COVID-19 infections had been trending down in the past two months. However, we are seeing more cases now as winter is approaching.

With that said, many people are testing at home, or not at all. So cases reported are an underestimate. In addition, the CDC continues to update community levels weekly. Currently, most Iowa counties are showing a low transmission level of COVID-19.

Are public health officials expecting a spike in cases during the holidays/winter months?

Typically, as public health officials, we anticipate an increase of viral illnesses during winter months as more people are gathered together indoors. Likewise, as people get together for the holidays, there are simply more opportunities to share germs and viruses.

While the virus that causes COVID-19 continues to circulate, so do the viruses which infect people with RSV, influenza and strep. As public health officials, we'll continue to encourage people to exercise caution and to practice universal precautions of thorough handwashing, covering your cough, and especially staying home and away from others when ill.

Have the number of people seeking booster shots surprised you, or have they lagged?

The bivalent booster has been available locally for several months; however, we continue to have people schedule appointments with Clay County Public Health to receive this vaccination.

Where can people get a booster?

Boosters are available from all public health agencies in the area, local pharmacies and clinics. To check on vaccine availability in your area, go to: http://www.vaccines.gov

Is there anything else you'd like to add?

Cases of RSV and flu are on the rise locally. In addition to a COVID-19 booster, everyone over the age of 6 months should get a flu shot.

Experts are predicting a severe flu season, so now is the time to be vaccinated! Flu and COVID vaccines can be administered at the same time. Unfortunately, there is no vaccine for RSV. With all viruses, prevention measures are key.