Baltimore residents, especially older adults, are encouraged to stay up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations as travel season begins, according to the Baltimore City Health Department’s new ad campaign.
The ad campaign aligns with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendation, which urges older residents, aged 65 and older, to receive a second dose of last September’s vaccine. The vaccine provides increased protection against the current dominant strain, which is more contagious than previous strains.
This past winter, the dominant strain led to a sharp rise in hospitalization, severe infections and even deaths. At the peak of the rise, 95% of hospitalized adults were not fully vaccinated against COVID-19, according to the CDC. Dr. Ihuoma Emenuga, the Baltimore City health commissioner, hopes residents will take preventive measures this season.
“We know that COVID-19 still poses a threat, especially to our most medically vulnerable, including our older adults,” Emenuga said. “The virus has evolved since the height of the pandemic and just as flu shots are recommended each season, the CDC recommends the updated COVID-19 shots to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community against serious illness from COVID-19.”
The updated vaccine is the only vaccine that can protect against the current strain because the immunity of the original vaccines has weakened, according to the Baltimore City Health Department.
Older adults should receive a second dose of the updated vaccine at least four months after their initial dose, and everyone 6 months or older should receive the updated vaccine, according to the CDC.
Most insurance plans offer the updated vaccine for free, but residents without insurance can receive vaccination at their local CVS and Walgreens at no cost. Residents can schedule an appointment at vaccines.gov.
The Baltimore City Health Department offers free walk-ins for uninsured adults or those with limited insurance coverage. Vaccinations are available every Friday at 1200 E. Fayette St. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For homebound Baltimore residents, the Baltimore City Health Department has a homebound vaccination program. Residents can schedule their in-home appointment by calling 443-216-9511.
Free take-home testing kits are also available at various locations across Baltimore City.
They have got to be kidding.
I need the vaccine. I’m 80 yo. Can I get home vaccine. Moderna only.
Hi Carole. You can register with the Baltimore City Health Department’s Homebound Vaccination Program by calling 443-216-9511 to schedule an in-home appointment.