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COVID-19

COVID-19: Information and Vaccines

Many people in the United States have some protection, or immunity, against COVID-19 due to vaccination, previous infection, or both. This immunity, combined with the availability of tests and treatments, has greatly reduced the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19 for many people.

At the same time, some people—such as those who are older, are immunocompromised, have certain disabilities, or have certain underlying health conditions—continue to be at higher risk for serious illness.

The Federal COVID-19 Public Health Emergency ended on May 11, 2023

What You Need To Know

  • Vaccines will remain available.  Access to COVID-19 vaccines will generally not be affected for now. The U.S. government is currently distributing free COVID-19 vaccines for all adults and children.  To help keep communities safe from COVID-19, HHS remains committed to maximizing continued access to COVID-19 vaccines.
  • COVID-19 at-home tests may not be covered by insurance.  Insurance providers will no longer be required to waive costs or provide free COVID-19 tests. CDC’s No Cost COVID-19 Testing Locator can help people find current community and pharmacy partners participating in the Increasing program.
  • Treatments will remain available.  Medication to prevent severe COVID-19, such as Paxlovid, will remain available for free while supplies last. After that, the price will be determined by the medication manufacturer and your health insurance coverage. Check with your healthcare provider if you need early treatment to prevent severe COVID-19.
  • National reporting of COVID-19 may change.  

COVID-19 Vaccines

COVID-19 vaccines available in the United States are effective at protecting people from getting seriously ill, being hospitalized, and dying. As with other vaccine-preventable diseases, you are best protected best from COVID-19 when you stay up to date with the recommended vaccinations.

  • Everyone 6 years and older should get 1 updated Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, regardless of whether they’ve received any original COVID-19 vaccines.
  • People aged 65 years and older may get a 2nd dose of updated Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.
  • People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised may get additional doses of updated Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.
  • Children aged 6 months–5 years may need multiple doses of COVID-19 vaccine to be up to date, including at least 1 dose of updated Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, depending on the number of doses they’ve previously received and their age.
  • COVID-19 vaccine recommendations will be updated as needed.

Vaccine clinics are offered at our three East Central District Health Department office locations.  Due to a busy schedule, appointments are required.

COVID-19 vaccines and boosters are available.  Influenza (flu) vaccines are also available during flu season.

For more information, contact Immunization Program Coordinator Sami Byrnes at (402) 562-7500 ext. 280, or Immunization Educator Susie Carney at (402) 562-7500 ext. 285.

ALBION

  • 1st and 3rd Thursdays
  • Times vary; call for information
  • 2583 S. Highway 14 Suite #3

SCHUYLER

  • Every Friday
  • 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
  • 316 East 11th St.

COLUMBUS

  • Mondays and Thursdays 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 a.m.
  • Wednesdays 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
  • Please call for an appointment 
  • 4321 41st Ave.
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