Tompkins County Whole Health is reminding the community to stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations ahead of an expected spike in cases, especially for people 65 and older, and people who are immune compromised.
Cases of COVID-19 tend to spike in early spring, as well as early fall, health officials said.
Older adults and immunocompromised people can receive a second dose of the updated vaccine six months after their first dose. The updated vaccine was released in September. The health department recommends that immune compromised individuals talk to their healthcare provider to figure out the best dose schedule.
“COVID-19 can cause severe symptoms in older adults and those who are immunocompromised,” said Rachel Buckwalter, director of community health services. “Vaccination can reduce severity of symptoms. It is strongly recommended to maintain your protection by staying up to date on vaccination doses. Please get your next COVID-19 vaccine dose as soon as you are eligible to do so.”
Current disease activity is available at https://tinyurl.com/wbxykhur, updated weekly.
The vaccine is available at pharmacies and Tompkins County Whole Health’s clinic. Call 607-274-6604 for an appointment.