Montgomery County had an average of about 50 cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 people at this time last year. For the last several weeks, the County is averaging slightly less than 200 reported cases per 100,000 residents. The County, like the national trend, is seeing reinfections in some residents and health officials say that natural immunity is not as strong as the immunity people get from vaccination and boosters.
A supply of the protein-based Novavax vaccine is now available to County residents. The technology has been used for decades to combat diseases such as hepatitis B and influenza. Clinical trials have shown the two-dose vaccine to have similar effectiveness as the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines at preventing and reducing illness from COVID-19.
The County’s Department of Health and Human Services is offering Novavax vaccines by appointment only. To indicate interest in an appointment, call the COVID-19 Call Center at 240-777-1982. To reduce waste of potential unused vaccines, Novavax vaccination clinics will be scheduled once there is a sense of demand.
The County Department of Health and Human Services recommends the following:
- Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines.
- Wear a well-fitting face covering indoors in public, regardless of vaccination status.
- Get tested if you have symptoms or are exposed.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides the following advice regarding COVID-19:
“COVID-19 vaccines available in the United States are effective at protecting people—especially those who are boosted— from getting seriously ill, being hospitalized and even dying. As with other diseases, you are protected best from COVID-19 when you stay up to date with the recommended vaccines.”
