COVID News From Health Planning Council of SWFL, Inc.

LABELLE, FL. -- In the early months of COVID-19 vaccine availability, many people of all ages flocked to their nearest vaccine site to receive their shot. People flaunted their vaccination cards online and helped friends and family find appointments. But a lot has changed in the three years since the pandemic began. For example, compared to initial vaccination rates, only a small fraction of the eligible U.S. population has gotten the bivalent booster.

The virus that causes COVID-19 is much different now than when the first vaccines came out in late 2020. The bivalent boosters address both the original strain of the virus and the more contagious omicron variants currently circulating. Vaccines are effective, but the immunity they give you wears off over time. The bivalent booster builds upon your previous vaccinations to keep your immune system ready to help you avoid serious illness.

March 2023 marks the 36th anniversary of National Disability Awareness Month. When it comes to public health, it's essential to focus on the "we." We're all connected, especially regarding highly transmissible respiratory viruses.

Visit Vaccines.gov to find out where to get the nearest vaccine and booster. In addition to staying current on our vaccines, we can prevent the spread of respiratory viruses by following these additional actions.

PS…here are a few recent coronavirus news articles that may interest you.

Study shows brain changes after COVID-19 infection, even in mild cases
A Smarter, Better Fight in the Next Pandemic
Have Questions About the Bivalent Booster? We Have Answers.
How Ableism Holds Back Scientists—and Science
Moderna's COVID vaccine gambit: Hike the price, offer free doses for uninsured
Florida's COVID cases continue to decline as death count nears 87,000

-Health Planning Council of SWFL, Inc.