August is National Immunization Awareness Month

Annually observed by the Centers for Disease Control, August is National Immunization Awareness Month.  You can find more information about National Immunization Awareness Month here.

To date just over 70% of people in this country are fully vaccinated for COVID-19, including children over five.  Almost 50% of the population has had at least one booster following the two dose  vaccine.  Getting a COVID-19 vaccine is a safer way to build immunity from COVID-19 than contracting the disease and counting on ”natural immunity” to protect you from future exposure.  Currently everyone 6 months and older can get a COVID-19 vaccine.  Talk to your doctor if you are allergic to certain types of vaccines or injectable medicines for other diseases.

The COVID-19 is free for all people living in the U.S. regardless of health insurance or immigration status.  Once  you receive a vaccine, you will receive a COVID-19 vaccination card which you should keep with you in your wallet.  ALso, consider taking a photo of it with your smart phone.

You can receive vaccines from your healthcare provider.  You can also find a vaccine location at vaccines.gov, text your zip code to 438829 or call 1 800 232 0233.  If you are homebound, you can dial 211 to connect to essential community services.

Here is an informational video about the vaccine.