Don't get COVID for the holidays!
Public health officials continue to learn more about the new Omicron COVID variant that was recently identified in South Africa. While there are many uncertainties about this variant, officials are reminding everyone to make sensible decisions to stay as healthy as possible.
Get boosters if you're eligible. The Wellesley Health Department and the Council on Aging are strongly encouraging residents, and especially senior citizens, to get COVID-19 booster shots. Boosters are safe, free, and effective at preventing serious illness and hospitalization from COVID-19. You do not need an ID card or health insurance to sign up for and receive a booster.
Public health experts are seeing reduced protection, especially among certain populations, against mild and moderate disease and continue to recommend getting the booster shot to increase vaccine effectiveness.
Who is eligible?
- Individuals 18+ who are fully vaccinated and received their last Pfizer or Moderna vaccine 6 months ago or longer;
- Individuals 18+ who are fully vaccinated and received their Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least 2 months ago.
You can mix booster shots (for example, get the Moderna booster if you received the 2-dose Pfizer vaccine). You can also get the COVID booster at the same time as you get the flu vaccine. Schedule an appointment now! Visit vaxfinder.mass.gov to book online appointments; book appointments through CVS and Walgreens pharmacy websites, or call the State COVID-19 Vaccine Resource Line at 2-1-1.
A reminder that children ages 5-11 and youth ages 12-17 are eligible for COVID-19 vaccines, but not boosters. These appointments may also be booked online; more appointments for children are becoming available every day so check back often.
Wear masks when attending large indoor gatherings. Recent public health data shows that COVID-19 infections are now primarily found and transmitted through household spread. Wellesley continues to have an indoor mask advisory for public spaces, and a masks are still required indoors in all municipal buildings and in Wellesley Public Schools.
When you travel for the holidays and gather with friends and family, please do your part so you and others stay safe this season!