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Updated COVID-19 vaccine approved ahead of virus season

Boulder County COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations on the rise
Community Submission
coronavirus
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NEWS RELEASE
BOULDER COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH
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An updated COVID-19 vaccine has been approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The new vaccine is specifically tailored to prevent illness caused by the COVID-19 strains XBB and EG.5, currently the most common strains of the virus in the country.

The CDC recommends everyone six months and older get an updated vaccine to protect themselves.

Supplies of the new vaccine will be delivered to pharmacies and health care providers across the country and is expected to be available in Boulder County soon.

“Cases of COVID-19 and hospitalizations are increasing in Boulder County and the surrounding region, and the most recent vaccine is an essential tool for staying healthy. Everyone who is eligible should get the newest vaccine to protect themselves and their loved ones as colder winter weather arrives,” said Keith Rawls, Boulder County Public Health’s Immunization Program Coordinator. “Like with the flu, the new COVID-19 vaccine is designed to address the latest and most concerning variants. If you have questions or concerns about the vaccine, it’s best to talk to your health care provider.”

The Federal program that provided free COVID-19 vaccines ended on Aug. 1.

In Boulder County, free vaccinations will be available for uninsured and underinsured adults through the Federal Bridge Access Program for COVID-19 Vaccines and Treatments. Additional information on this program can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/programs/bridge/index.html.  A list of Bridge Access Program vaccine providers can be found at https://www.vaccines.gov/.

BCPH will not be providing vaccinations for people who have private or public health insurance. Residents with insurance should talk to their health care provider about getting their vaccination. Pharmacies may also be a resource for those with insurance to receive vaccinations.

Take these steps to stay safe:

  • Get yourself and your family fully vaccinated and stay up to date by getting boosted when eligible. Vaccines are safe, effective, and authorized for anyone over six months old, and they drastically reduce the chance of hospitalization and death.
  • Have a plan for testing – If you plan to be near someone at high risk for severe disease, hospitalization, or death, consider getting tested prior to gathering.
  • Increase airflow and ventilation – While indoors, use HEPA filters or increase ventilation and airflow by opening windows or increasing air circulation. Consider moving activities outdoors for the best protection.
  • Keep your loved ones and community safe by following CDC recommendations for isolation and quarantine, including getting tested if you are exposed to COVID-19 or have symptoms of COVID-19.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds regularly throughout the day.
  • Consider wearing a well-fitting, medical-grade mask as an added layer of protection, especially in close indoor settings or when close to people at high risk for severe disease, hospitalization and death.
  • If you are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe disease:
    • Talk to your healthcare provider about whether you need to wear a mask and take other precautions.
    • Talk to your healthcare provider about whether you are a candidate for treatments like oral antivirals, such as Paxlovid, and make a plan ahead of time to access testing and treatment if needed.
    • In the week or two leading up to important events, travel, or visits with loved ones who may be at higher risk of severe disease, take steps to avoid becoming ill such as wearing a well-fitting, medical-grade mask in public and reducing non-essential indoor activities to limit your exposure and getting tested ahead of time.

Additional COVID-19 Resources

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