COVID-19 NEWS
Stay Up to Date with Your COVID-19 Vaccines
Many people who are already vaccinated against COVID-19 should now receive another dose for the highest level of protection. While vaccines work very well to prevent COVID-19, immunity can drop over time. Getting a third dose when it’s time is the best way to keep up protection for you, your loved ones, and the community. COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, and free. You don’t need an ID or insurance to get a vaccine.
Self-Testing for COVID-19
Testing is critically important to help reduce the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19. If you have symptoms or had a known exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, you should be tested, regardless of your vaccination status. A website is now available for each Colorado citizen to order one free package (contains 2 tests) of at-home COVID-19 testing material.
COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Shots
The FDA has amended the Emergency Use Authorization for the Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine to allow for use of a single booster dose, to be administered at least six months after completion of the primary series in people 65 and older, 18 and older who have underlying medical conditions, 18 and older who live in high-risk settings, and 18 and older who work in high-risk settings.
COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement for Colorado Staff in Licensed Healthcare Settings
The Colorado State Board of Health has approved emergency rules requiring vaccination for staff in licensed healthcare settings. The Board met to consider a request from Governor Polis to implement rules requiring licensed healthcare facilities to mandate their personnel -- including employees, direct contractors, and support staff-- who interact with individuals seeking medical care to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
COVID-19 Vaccines for Immunocompromised People
CDC now recommends that people whose immune systems are compromised moderately to severely should receive an additional dose of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine after the initial 2 doses. Widespread vaccination is a critical tool to help stop the pandemic.
Disability Information and Access Line
The Disability Information and Access Line (DIAL) connects callers to information about how to access the COVID-19 vaccine and related supports for people with disabilities. DIAL connects callers to vaccine sites and provides information related to barriers to vaccination by referring callers to local and national disability resources.
COVID- 19 Vaccine Protection In People Who are Immunocompromised
According to the CDC, if you have a condition or are taking medications that weaken your immune system, you may NOT be fully protected even if you are fully vaccinated. Even after vaccination, you may need to continue taking all precautions.
WEBINAR: COVID-19 Vaccines for Caregivers
Georgia Tech Center for Inclusive Design and Innovation's recent webinar on COVID-19 Vaccines for Caregivers and Personal Care Attendants (PCAs) webinar explores the considerations of COVID-19 vaccines for caregivers and PCAs within the disability community.