Johnson Memorial Health Services (JMHS) has administered 2,581 Covid-19 doses, translating to 1,290 people, to date through their vaccination clinics. The JMHS staff have worked so hard coordinating schedules, personnel, and administration of the COVID-19 vaccines for our community.
COVID-19 vaccines are now available to all those 16+. It is rumored that the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) is likely to authorize use of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in 12- to 15-year-olds shortly. The vaccine was found to be extremely effective in adolescents – possibly even more so than in adults. Kids younger than 12 will have to wait until the fall, as Pfizer is on track to announce trial results for them in September.
Even if you’ve already been vaccinated, it’s important to make sure your child gets their shot as well. As more of the population gets vaccinated, the coronavirus will have less people to infect, bringing the country closer to herd immunity. Parents with questions or concerns about the vaccine should contact their medical provider.
The COVID-19 vaccines are extremely effective at protecting against hospitalizations and deaths. Early study results also suggest that vaccinated people may be less contagious to others, even if they contract a mild case of COVID-19 despite getting their shots.
Last week Minnesota started to roll back many COVID-19 mandates. Governor Walz announced that the mask mandate would remain until the state reached 70% vaccinations in people 16+ or July 1 whichever comes first. Minnesota is currently at 60% of people vaccinated with at least one dose. Lac qui Parle County lags behind the state with 55% of the population receiving at least one dose.
JMHS currently has the COVID-19 vaccine available to eligible individuals that want to be vaccinated. Patients can call to receive the vaccine during regular clinic hours which are Mondays and Wednesdays 8:30 am – 6:30 pm and Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. To schedule an appointment call 320-769-4393.
