COVID-19 Updates

As we continued to fight the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic this past year, we also came together to heal from challenges and adapt to situations that were unlike any that we had ever faced. From the struggles of working parents juggling remote learning with their job, to loved ones and friends who we’ve lost to this terrible virus — we’ve once again helped, comforted, and cared for each other during these difficult times. We also regained a sense of hope and normalcy as vaccines became widely available and the House passed important legislation that provided a lifeline to many Americans, families, and communities.

It is important to continue listening to our public health experts to keep ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities safe and healthy. We must also continue using the mitigation efforts of getting vaccinated, wearing a mask, socially distancing, and abiding by our local health orders.

In the face of this outbreak, the federal government must act swiftly and decisively to protect our public health. This means a robust, coordinated, and comprehensive effort to put resources in the hands of medical providers and our local partners working to save lives. As an important first step, the House and Senate have passed a COVID-19 relief package to help fight the coronavirus outbreak. The legislation includes funding that will support testing, vaccine distribution, small businesses, and direct relief to you and your family. The text of legislation can be found here and a summary of that legislation can be found here. Our office is closely monitoring the situation and working with local public health officials, health systems and the federal government as resources continue to be dispersed.

NOTE: If you are a small business owner and you have been impacted by the COVID-19 crisis, please see our website page directing you to available resources from the Small Business Administration.

CDC RECOMMENDATIONS:

COVID-19 vaccines are effective at protecting you from getting sick. Based on what we know about COVID-19 vaccines, and similar to what we know from other recommended vaccines, people who are up-to-date with their vaccines are well protected from serious illness or other health outcomes. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

Avoid close contact with people who are sick
Avoid touching your Eyes, Nose, and Mouth
Stay home when you are sick
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe
Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a face mask
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing

For information about handwashing, see CDC’'s Handwashing website page.

For information specific to healthcare, see CDC’s Hand Hygiene in Healthcare Settings .

These are everyday habits that can help prevent the spread of several viruses. CDC does have specific guidance for travelers.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

Everyone 5 years and older is recommended to receive a primary series of a COVID-19 vaccine to be considered fully vaccinated.

For children 5 years through 17 years of age, a primary series consists of 2 doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. For persons 18 and older, a primary series consists of: