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NOTE: Updates have been made to data shared in this newsletter in response to community feedback.
AT A GLANCE: SANTA BARBARA COUNTY
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21
FDA TAKES ADDITIONAL ACTIONS ON THE USE OF A BOOSTER DOSE FOR COVID-19 VACCINES
On October 20, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration took action to expand the use of a booster dose for COVID-19 vaccines in eligible populations. The agency is amending the emergency use authorizations (EUA) for COVID-19 vaccines to allow for the use of a single booster dose for Moderna and Janssen (Johnson and Johnson).
Yesterday, CDC Director Rochelle P. Walensky, M.D., M.P.H., endorsed the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ (ACIP) recommendation for a booster shot of COVID-19 vaccines in certain populations. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and CDC’s recommendation for use are important steps forward as we work to stay ahead of the virus and keep Americans safe.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR A COVID-19 VACCINE BOOSTER SHOT?
COVID-19 vaccine booster shots are available for certain groups.
For individuals who received a Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, the following groups are eligible for a booster shot at 6 months or more after their initial series:
~65 years and older
~Age 18+ who live in long-term care settings
~Age 18+ who have underlying medical conditions
~Age 18+ who work or live in high-risk settings
For the nearly 15 million people who got the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, booster shots are also recommended for those who are 18 and older and who were vaccinated two or more months ago.
The Fall is here, and you and your family may be looking forward to scheduling visits to the pumpkin patch or enjoying fall festivals and Halloween parties.
To make sure you all stay safe, here are a few recommendations as you head out to celebrate.
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH CONTINUES TO URGE RESIDENTS TO GET FLU SHOTS
The Santa Barbara County Public Health Department reminds the community that Flu season has arrived. Flu vaccination will be very important to reduce flu and reduce the overall impact of respiratory illnesses on the community, like COVID-19. Getting a flu vaccine is an essential part of protecting your health and your family’s health. Flu vaccines are not designed to protect against COVID-19. Flu vaccination reduces the risk of flu illness, hospitalization and death in addition to other important benefits.
VIDEO:OCTOBER 21 KEYT LIVE INTERVIEW WITH HEALTH OFFICER DR. HENNING ANSORG
Tune in to KEYT Newschannel 3 generally each Thursday at 11 a.m. for a live one-on-one interview with Santa Barbara County public health experts for the latest news about COVID-19 and pandemic recovery.
Click below for a map and listing of County Public Health PCR test sites, and our FAQ. Otherwise, please contact your primary care provider or preferred Urgent Care Center to inquire about available testing options.