Among COVID-19 deaths in residents of Garrett County since early August 2021, only 2/15 (13%) were in people who were fully vaccinated. Deaths in people who were fully vaccinated occur uncommonly and are associated with higher individual medical risk in those cases. When this is observed, the individuals tend to be older and to have more complex medical conditions. Vaccine efficacy begins to weaken after 6 months. Elderly individuals, who already have relatively weaker immune systems often also have complex medical problems. All of these contribute to a generally increased susceptibility to poor outcomes. Our most elderly community members were the first to be vaccinated in early 2020. It is time for them to be boosted.
Prepared by: Jennifer Corder, M.D. – Medical Deputy Health Officer, Allegany and Garrett County Health Departments
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Additional Resources: Upcoming COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics, COVID-19 Testing Information
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