COVID-19 News

We continue to have an uptick in COVID-19, but thankfully, the cases seem to be less severe overall.

Of course, if you or a loved one are in a high-risk category, you might consider taking extra precautions, including masking and being wary of large groups.

If you come down with symptoms of COVID-19, please alert me. Paxlovid is still recommended for treatment for those in higher risk categories.

Also, you can contribute to accurate data collection and COVID-19 statistics by reporting your test results.

The updated COVID-19 bivalent vaccination was approved in September, but there continues to be frustrations with access – keep trying!

Lastly, free COVID-19 tests are again available.

For more information 

• MA DPH COVID-19 data reporting
• 2023 Fall Vaccine Chart from “Your Local Epidemiologist”
• Information about COVID-19 vaccinations from MA DPH
• COVID-19 Vaccine finder
• CDC information about COVID-19

RSV Vaccination

RSV or “Respiratory Syncytial Virus” is a virus that has been known to cause serious illness in infants and young children. Sometimes, it also causes more serious illness in older adults – as it did last year. There is concern that we can face yet another year of RSV, Flu, and COVID-19 infections over the winter months.

RSV vaccinations have now been developed and approved for those older than 60 years and/or have underlying medical conditions that put them at increased risk (lung disease, heart disease, immunocompromised state, etc.). The CDC has a detailed article that reviews the vaccines that are available and reviews the pros/cons associated. As with any new vaccine (similar to those for COVID-19), there will be ongoing data collection regarding effectiveness well as for adverse effects.

Best to speak with your physician regarding your particular situation and the decision to get vaccinated.