FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Wes Stubblefield, M.D., (256) 340-2113
The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) encourages the public to get vaccinated or boosted against the COVID-19 virus, get flu shots, take prevention measures, and seek healthcare guidance when sick during the holiday season.
The updated bivalent COVID-19 vaccine booster which protects against contagious omicron COVID-19 variants is now authorized for children ages 6 months and older. This authorization comes at a time when influenza-like activity is very high in the state and hospitals are overcrowded with patients with respiratory illnesses. The percentage of positive COVID-19 tests in Alabama was 10 percent on December 12, an increase from 4.5 percent on November 13.
ADPH advises parents to discuss COVID-19 vaccination for their children with their healthcare provider. In addition to reducing COVID-19 disease or severe outcomes in vaccinated children, getting vaccinated reduces the chance of transmission of the virus to other people, including family members and friends who may be more susceptible to severe consequences of the infection. Having your children vaccinated means they are less likely to become infected and can continue participating in school and other activities.
The new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance is as follows:
If you are hesitant about getting a COVID-19 vaccine or booster, please discuss this with your healthcare provider. The sooner you are vaccinated, the sooner you are afforded protection. To find COVID-19 vaccination locations near you, search vaccines.gov, text your zip code to 438829, or call 1-800-232-0233.
Information about recommended COVID-19 vaccines and boosters for all ages is available at the following website: cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html
For more information, go to alabamapublichealth.gov/covid19.
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12/13/22
County health departments throughout Alabama provide a wide range of confidential and professional services. Contact your local county health department for additional information.
Mission: To promote, protect, and improve Alabama’s health
Vision: Healthy People. Healthy Communities. Healthy Alabama.