As the COVID-19 pandemic evolves, ongoing protection remains as critical as ever. Our best defense has been and will continue to be staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations by getting a booster dose when eligible. COVID-19 vaccines are remarkably effective at reducing risk for serious illness, hospitalization, and death. But protection weakens over time, especially in people ages 65 and older. Getting a booster shot helps restore that protection, and is effective against variants such as Omicron.
Throughout the pandemic, age has been the leading predictor of risk from COVID-19. Older adults continue to be the most at risk for severe complications or death from COVID-19. Compared with adults younger than age 30, the rate of death is 65 times higher for 65- to 74-year-olds; 140 times higher for those ages 75 to 84; and 340 times higher for people who are 85 years and older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Risk for COVID-19 Infection, Hospitalization, and Death by Age Group.
Millions of eligible Ohioans are not vaccinated or boosted. If you are over the age of 50, it is especially important to receive a COVID-19 booster shot to reduce your risk for serious illness, including hospitalization and death. Cases and hospitalizations continue on a downward trend; however, the COVID-19 threat remains.
A booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for all Ohioans age 12 and older when eligible:
• Johnson & Johnson recipients can get a booster two months after they received their first dose of the vaccine.
• Pfizer and Moderna recipients can get a booster five months after their last dose.
The Stark County Health Department is offering no-cost COVID-19 booster doses to eligible fully vaccinated Ohioans 12 and older. We offer COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. by appointment through ArmorVax.com or by calling 330.451.1681.
Ohioans who have questions about COVID-19 vaccines and boosters are encouraged to contact us for more information. Please bring your COVID-19 vaccine card to your appointment. If you cannot find your vaccine card, you can still receive a booster dose. If you have any questions about COVID-19 vaccination, contact us at 330.451.1681.
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