COVID-19 Vaccine Boosters  

On Thursday, September 1, 2022, the CDC aligned with the FDA’s authorization of both Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna’s respective bivalent COVID-19 vaccines for emergency use authorization. The CDC recommends that everyone who is eligible stay up-to-date on vaccinations by getting an updated booster dose at least 2 months after their last COVID-19 shot—either since their last booster dose, or since completing their primary series. Pfizer’s updated booster shot is recommended for individuals 12 and older, and Moderna’s updated booster shot is recommended for adults 18 and older.  

These new boosters contain an updated bivalent formula that both boosts immunity against the original coronavirus strain and also protects against the newer Omicron variants that account for most of the current cases. Updated boosters are intended to provide optimal protection against the virus and address waning vaccine effectiveness over time. 

For more information visit the CDC’s Stay Up to Date with COVID-19 Vaccines Including Boosters.  

To find a COVID-19 vaccination location near you visit Vaccines.gov.  

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month 

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. With suicide being the 12th leading cause of death in the United States, it is important to end the stigma surrounding this topic. Having suicidal thoughts can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or background. Visit the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) for more information and resources.  

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988, or visit our Crisis Care Program page for more resources.  

In July, the number 988 was introduced as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The previous Lifeline number (800-273-8255) will continue to be available along with 988.  

Disasters and emergencies can happen at any time. National Preparedness Month’s purpose is to raise awareness about the importance of being prepared for disasters and emergencies. This year’s theme is “A Lasting Legacy” focusing on protecting the life you’ve built.  

An emergency kit should have everything you need to survive for several days. An emergency toolkit should contain: 

• Non-perishable food and water that can last several days 
• Flashlights, radios & extra batteries 
• First aid kit 
• Supplies that might be needed by pets, older adults, and those with disabilities. 

Visit Ready.gov for a list of what to include in a disaster supply kit. 

Labor Day weekend is traditionally a big weekend for grilling and gatherings. When preparing and serving food outdoors, keep meat, poultry, and seafood refrigerated until you are ready to grill it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure food is cooked to a safe temperature. Refrigerate or freeze leftovers within two hours of cooking. Visit the CDC for more information about How to Grill Safely. 

International Overdose Awareness Day occurred on August 31. This annual campaign is intended to raise awareness to end overdose, reduce stigma, and remember those lost to overdose. North America experiences the highest drug-related mortality rate in the world. Overdosing can affect anyone including family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers. Knowing overdose basics could save someone's life. 

If you or someone you care for uses opioids, carry naloxone. Visit our Naloxone Saves Lives page for information about obtaining Naloxone. It just might save a life in the event of an opioid overdose.