The Greene County public health department is monitoring the emergence of the Omicron variant of Covid-19. The variant has not yet been reported in the United States. It was first detected in South Africa, but has spread to several other countries, including Canada. “As we learn more about this new variant, we will share that information via radio, print and online news sources, and the Greene County Public Health Iowa Facebook page,” public health director Becky Wolf said.
Wolf reports that 13 new cases of Covid-19 were diagnosed in Greene County residents during the week that ended Nov. 29. The 7-day positivity rate for testing is 11.2 percent; the 14-day rate is 11.4 percent. The level of community transition is rated high.
She reports 53.6 percent of the total Greene County population is fully vaccinated against Covid-19, unchanged from last week.
Sixty-two children have received their first dose of the Pfizer pediatric vaccine. Parents of Paton-Churdan students can visit https://hipaa.jotform.com/213276304452147 for information about scheduling their children for a school-based clinic.
Healthcare providers are now able to administer a booster dose of Moderna or Pfizer vaccine to anyone age 18 and older. The booster must be at least six months after completion of the primary (first two doses) series. Wolf strongly urge persons ages 50 and older and residents age 18 and older in long term care settings. Persons who work in health care or other jobs with a high risk of exposure are also strongly encouraged to get a booster.
Adults can receive influenza and/or Covid-19 vaccines at public health as well. Register online at https://hipaa.jotform.com/203558336058156 or call 515-386-3228.
