COVID is Not Over!
The introduction of the COVID vaccine, along with masking and distancing, helped to drive down the number of new cases dramatically, especially here in Vermont where the vaccination rate is one of the highest in the nation. But in recent weeks we have seen the number of cases rise due to the Delta variant of the virus.
Some are calling this surge a “plague of the unvaccinated” because those who are seriously ill are largely from that population. Even here in Vermont, where over 85% of the population has been vaccinated, case numbers are rising.
More Infections = More Mutations!
Just as the Delta variant has allowed COVID to become more easily transmissible, driving the spread of the virus, experts fear the emergence of an even more deadly variant. Every time someone is infected with COVID, it is a new opportunity for a variant to appear. The longer the virus persists in our population, the more time it has to produce a more dangerous variant.
Limiting Viral Spread
In 2020, we quickly learned that some basic tools, like distancing, masking and hand washing are effective in preventing infection. Introduction of the vaccine – by far our most potent defense against the virus – dramatically slowed the spread of COVID in our community. But there are still too many people who are eligible and have not yet elected to be vaccinated. And children under 12 are not yet eligible to be vaccinated. In addition, those who are vaccinated can still become infected and transmit the virus.
The recent surge in cases makes it clear that we must all remain vigilant and remind ourselves of those practices that we know will help limit spread of the virus:
Get vaccinated if you are eligible
Consider wearing a mask and distancing, especially indoors
Get Your Vaccination
Walk-in appointments are available at these store pharmacies: Kinney Drugs, Walgreens and the locations listed below:
- NVRH Monday 1-3 PM, Wednesday 8:30am-12:30pm
- Northern Express Care St. Johnsbury, Tuesday & Thursday 3-7 PM, Saturday 10:00 am – 2:00 PM
- Hardwick Area Health Center Monday 7:30am-11:30am, Wednesday 1:30pm-5:30pm
Vaccinations are also available (with admission) at the Caledonia County Fair:
Friday (8/27) – 3:00 – 6:00pm (J&J)
Saturday (8/28) – 3:00 – 6:00pm (J&J)
Sunday (8/29) – 12:00 – 3:00pm (J&J)
Visit the Vermont Department of Health website for additional vaccine locations and times.