COVID-19 booster shots not yet available locally; Hold phone calls

Veterans Memorial Hospital Community and Home Care Allamakee County Public Health Office is receiving numerous phone calls requesting a booster, or third dose, of the COVID-19 vaccine. At this time, only those being treated for cancer or who have a transplant history or an immunosuppressive disorder may be due for a booster. Allamakee County Public Health asks that everyone else hold their phone calls at this time and they will announce when the dose is available and the order in which it will be given.

Until that time, there is plenty of first and second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine available for those in the area that have not yet been vaccinated. According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, the best way to protect oneself against COVID-19 is to get vaccinated. The risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19 far outweighs any benefits of natural immunity. COVID-19 can have serious, life threatening complications and there is no way to know how it will affect anyone. The COVID-19 vaccine, which is readily available locally, creates an antibody (immune system) response without having to experience sickness.

Allamakee County Public Health does have a good supply of vaccine and is highly encouraging everyone to receive it. Vaccine clinics are readily available every Friday afternoon for both prime and second doses for Moderna and Pfizer. Pfizer can be used for people age 12 and older. These clinics are held at the main entrance to Veterans Memorial Hospital. Call 563-568-5660 to schedule an appointment.

Both Hartig Drug and Nightingale Pharmacy in Waukon have vaccine available for ages 12 and older. Parental/guardian consent is required. Call ahead to schedule an appointment.

Watch the Veterans Memorial Hospital website at  www.veteransmemorialhospital.com and the Veterans Memorial Hospital Facebook page for upcoming clinic details.