Newsletter from the Coastal Health District (December 10, 2021)

The following information is courtesy of the Georgia Department of Public Health Coastal Health District

 

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Weekly Update for 12.10.21

The Spread of Omicron

The Omicron variant - a mutated version of the virus that causes COVID-19 - is beginning to show up in more places around the globe and in the United States. Omicron was first detected in the U.S. on December 1, and then in a Georgia resident two days later.

Just yesterday, another Georgia resident tested positive for COVID-19 with the Omicron variant, and this individual had no recent international travel history. The Omicron variant has now been detected in patients in at least 21 U.S. states and in dozens of countries around the world.

The recent emergence of Omicron further emphasizes the importance of vaccination and boosters. Although breakthrough infections in people who are fully vaccinated may occur, current vaccines are expected to provide protection against severe illness, hospitalizations, and deaths due to infection with the Omicron variant. With other variants, like Delta, vaccines have remained effective at preventing serious illness.

All Georgians over the age of 5 are now eligible for COVID vaccination and many Georgians are eligible for booster doses. Click the button below to view our vaccination clinic schedule and make an appointment. 

Make a Vaccination Appointment
 

Blake’s Story – A 24-year-old’s battle against COVID-19

24-year-old Blake’s battle with the virus changed his life when complications required a double lung transplant. 
 
Public health agencies worldwide are working to learn more about the Omicron variant while also slowing its spread. The CDC issued a report today on the measures it's taking against Omicron. Read more. 
 

Free COVID-19 Testing

COVID testing is an important tool in slowing the spread of the virus. If you test positive, you can isolate to avoid infecting those around you, and you can get proper treatment if you have symptoms. 

You have several options for testing. Many pharmacies sell at-home COVID tests, or you can get tested at your doctor's office or an urgent care center. Public health offers free PCR COVID testing in several locations. It takes a day or two to receive PCR test results, but these tests are generally more accurate than at-home tests. 

COVID-19 testing is recommended if you have symptoms of the illness or if you may have been exposed to someone with COVID. Click the button below to learn more about free COVID-19 testing options in the Coastal Health District. 

Get COVID-19 Testing Information
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This article was originally published by The Landings Association on their website.

Visit landings.org to read the original article.
https://landings.org/news/2021/12/10/newsletter-coastal-health-district-december-10-2021