Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment Emphasizes Continued Importance of COVID-19 Vaccination, Boosters, and Testing
As Omicron Subvariant BA.2 spreads throughout Europe and the U.S., the public is urged to remain vigilant
March 17, 2022 (Barnstable, MA) – While Barnstable County continues to experience an overall decline in COVID-19 case numbers as reported by the MA Department of Public Health, officials advise that additional variants of concern are likely to emerge and emphasize the need for the public to remain prepared.
The Health Department urges all residents and visitors to ensure full COVID-19 vaccination for themselves and their family members, including children ages 5+. All those eligible for vaccination should receive a primary dose series (two shots of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, or one shot of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine) followed by a booster shot according to the vaccine manufacturer’s recommended schedule.
In addition, the public is urged to obtain free home test kits that are being offered by the federal government. Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order 2 sets of 4 free at-home tests.
According to Department of Health and Environment Director Sean O’Brien, “While we enjoy the easing of COVID-19 restrictions due to a continued decline in cases, it’s important to remember what got us here – vaccination and testing. In order to keep the numbers down, especially in light of developing subvariants and variants, we need to keep ourselves and our children up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations and booster shots. It’s also important to utilize the availability of free home testing resources, especially when symptoms arise or prior to attending large gatherings. Things are better, but it’s not over.”
For information on vaccination and booster shots in Barnstable County visit https://www.barnstablecountyhealth.org/newsroom/vaccination-clinics-in-barnstable-county. You may also schedule vaccinations and boosters at your local pharmacy.
To order free, at-home COVID-19 tests, please visit https://www.covidtests.gov/.
For vaccination and booster schedules by vaccine manufacturer, visit CDC’s website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/different-vaccines.html.
For information on testing in Barnstable County visit https://www.barnstablecountyhealth.org/newsroom/covid-19-testing-opportunities-in-barnstable-county. You may also schedule tests at your local pharmacy.
ABOUT BARNSTABLE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT
Established under a Special Act of the Legislature in 1926, the Barnstable County Department of Health & Environment (BCDHE) provides regional public health and environmental health services throughout the 15 towns comprising Barnstable County. The Department manages several environmental, public health, and homeland security grants funded through state and federal resources. The Department’s primary mission is to protect public health and the environment and promote the physical and mental health and well-being of Barnstable County residents.
ABOUT BARNSTABLE COUNTY REGIONAL GOVERNMENT OF CAPE COD Barnstable County provides exemplary government functions and services to keep our community healthy and safe, promote sustainable growth, and offer a proactive, open government that enhances the quality of life for the citizens of Barnstable County. Learn more atwww.barnstablecounty.org
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