Public health doctor says booster shots will help



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Dr Jared
Reading

There were 12 deaths attributed to COVID-19 in September for Uvalde County, and local health official Dr Jared Reading recommends coronavirus booster shots to reduce health risks.

TThe 12th death, reported Thursday, brings the number of complications from the virus to 91, while Reading says vaccinations can help ease the risk of serious health complications for many people.

“Vaccinations continue to provide the least pain and suffering to the individual and to our society,” Reading said.

“Reminders for those over 65, those over 55 suffering from chronic health problems and those whose work puts us close to other people likely to be sick (health workers, law enforcement, teachers or people living in the community, etc.) approved, ”he said.

“I will receive a reminder because it is my moral responsibility to do so for the good of my patients. I also don’t want to miss out on my children’s work and life, and I know that vaccines not only decrease disease but also disease transmission, ”Reading said.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also indicates that people between the ages of 18 and 49 with underlying health conditions may also choose to receive a Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine booster. Booster shots are recommended about six months after vaccination to increase the immune system response.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration may soon allow a half-dose booster of the Moderna vaccine to a larger group, but for now, people 18 years and older with severe immunosuppression are eligible for a third dose of the vaccine. .

“Life is short, so be healthy (more fruits, vegetables, exercise) and that includes being vaccinated not only against COVID-19, but against the many other diseases for which vaccines are known. to reduce the severity and transmission of the disease. Vaccination is not just for you personally, but for society as a whole, ”Reading said.

“Being vaccinated is a sign of compassion; a willingness to protect those around you and a healthy way forward for those who come after us. “

Active cases

Active coronavirus cases in Uvalde County declined last week and remained below 250 for several days. Reading says he expects this trend to continue.

“I expect a continued decrease in cases over time with an occasional spike. All the major models in the United States show a continued decrease in cases until at least March with small bumps due to holidays and other gatherings, ”Reading said.

He said COVID-19 is now a part of life across the country and finding ways to mitigate health risks is essential.

“For those of us (most of us) who have some level of immunity, through vaccination or infection or both, infections will be much less severe in the future, such as allergies or common cold. The virus will continue to be much worse for people with chronic illnesses, vaccinated or not. We should all expect to be infected eventually, probably multiple times, to move forward. “

Recall shots

Walmart, Walgreens, and HEB pharmacies have vaccines in stock for initial or secondary doses, or booster shots.

Community Health Development Inc. hosted a booster vaccination clinic yesterday and expects to host one again next Saturday. They also have a flu shot on hand at Our Health / Nuestro Centro de Salud, 200 S. Evans St.

Dolores O. Quiroz, director of development, said the office is recommending flu shots because fewer people wear masks and practice social distancing than last year.

“The flu was not as bad last year due to COVID-19 safety protocols, but we might have a different situation this year. We have flu shots available, ”Quiroz said.

Until December, the Texas National Guard will continue to hold immunization clinics are held every Tuesday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Willie De Leon Civic Center, 300 E. Main St. Appointments are not required and all three vaccines are available.

[email protected], 830-278-3335

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