COVID-19 Update on behalf of Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness

Louisville Metro Government sent this bulletin at 12/03/2021 03:35 PM EST

The Louisville Metro Air Pollution Control District is sharing this public health message on behalf of the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness. Relevant information on vaccination clinics this weekend and the omicron variant is included below.

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Learn more about omicron and other variants

What is the omicron variant?

Omicron is a new variant of the virus that causes COVID-19. The omicron variant has been detected in a growing number of countries, including the U.S.

Are the vaccines effective against this variant?

Studies are underway to answer that question. While it is possible that current vaccines may be less effective against the omicron variant, vaccine availability is limited in many African countries, and South African officials are reporting that most of the people there who are sick due to the omicron variant were not vaccinated. Vaccines remain widely available in the U.S. and the omicron variant is yet another reason to get vaccinated and get a booster if you are eligible.

Is omicron as serious a health risk as other variants? Is it more or less contagious?

Health officials are collecting data to be able to answer these questions. In the meantime, it is important to remember that any coronavirus infection can be life threatening especially in people with underlying medical conditions. The best way to prevent the spread of this new variant or any other variant is to get vaccinated, get a booster if you are eligible, and to wear a mask in indoor public settings or in a crowded environment. In most places, masking is also required for air, train and bus travel and other forms of public transportation.

Courtesy of Public Health Communications Collaborative

Opportunities to get COVID-19 vaccines

Child receiving vaccine

The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness has teamed up with the Kentucky Nurses Association, Park DuValle Community Health Centers, Bluewater Dx and the Kentucky National Guard to provide COVID vaccine first-and-second doses, booster doses, and vaccines for children ages 5 and older.

The clinics provide individuals an opportunity to talk about the COVID-19 vaccines with a medical expert. No appointments are necessary, and walk-ins are welcome. Translation services are available. A parent or guardian must be present for anyone under the age of 12. Parental or guardian consent can be given for individuals ages 12 – 17.

Friday, Dec. 3

Hosted by Wesley House (Pfizer)