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COLUMBUS -- Cold and flu season is fast approaching, and a new vaccine is rolling out to meet new variants of COVID-19 along with the potentially harmful respiratory syncytial virus.
On Thursday, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Health Director Bruce Vanderhoff spoke about common issues and concerns and recommended everyone -- particularly those ages 65 and older or who have underlying conditions that could make them vulnerable -- get vaccinated. DeWine said the new vaccines have been out for about a week and, since COVID-19 cases and related hospitalizations have also increased, the public is advised to stay up-to-date.
"COVID-19 remains a very real health threat," he said, adding that the increase in cases and hospitalizations has not been close to the numbers in previous years, likely thanks to hybrid immunity due to vaccinations and past COVID-19 infections. He said Ohio now has an average of two COVID-19 related deaths daily.
The new COVID-19 vaccine has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and recommended by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention for anyone 6 months old or older who has not received a dose in the past two months.
Following the end of the public health emergency in May, the new COVID-19 vaccine will be ordered by providers directly from the manufacturers, not through federal and state authorities. Forms of insurance including Medicare and Medicaid should cover the vaccinations. Vanderhoff said there are several programs to assist those without insurance to receive vaccinations without expense. These include the Federal Vaccines for Children Program and the CDC's Bridge Access Program for adults through the end of 2024. The CDC had contracted with CVS, Walgreens and eTrueNorth Pharmacies.
More information on COVID vaccine providers can be found at vaccines.gov.
DeWine and Vanderhoff also remind the public that flu season is coming as well and that RSV cases are a leading cause of hospitalization nationally for infants younger than 1 year old. RSV shots are available for adults.
In answer to a question from reporters, DeWine said he does not foresee a need for more mask mandates. Vanderhoff advises anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 to isolate themselves and use a high-quality mask when in contact with others.
They do not expect a potential federal government shutdown to interfere with vaccine distribution.
Officials from the Belmont County Health Department were not available to comment on Belmont County's COVID status Thursday, but according to census.gov, in 2022, a total of 22.1 percent of Belmont County residents were 65 years old or older. The population is about 65,000 residents. The Belmont County Health Department Facebook page is offering assistance in transporting people to obtain a flu shot. Call 740-695-1202, ext. 110, to make arrangements.